So I’m like almost done with Season 7 and got super impatient with whatever is happening with these damn Dragons so I looked up the official Fairy Tail timeline and. My god.

Learning that 1. Natsu is the oldest by a lot in canon and 2. if all had gone okay Erza would have been younger than Wendy really put my brain into some Dummy Mode so here we are.

I’m calling this the Childhood Friend’s AU and putting info under the cut

So I changed like a lot of things I wanted to mess with canon ages, so I needed t visit the timeline eventually anyway. Here’s about how it goes: 

The dragon slayers, after traveling through time, stay together, now with a new born and newly abandoned baby Erza. They still don’t remember what really happened to their parents, and are still looking for them, but now together and with a baby, which makes travel difficult.

Natsu, as the oldest, is doing his best to look out for everyone, as Igneel told him to. He finds hiding spots for them, hunts for and cooks the food, keeps everyone training with their magic, and cares for Erza to the best of his abilities.

But he’s still Natsu.

After getting chased out of yet ANOTHER town for damages, theft, and noise complaints, the Dragon kids find themselves hiding in the yard of the Heartfilia family, where they’re eventually found by Lucy.

If Lucy’s mom was still around she’d probably tell her parents right away about the beat up, tired, hungry homeless kids she found in the garden, but sense it’s just her, her dad, and the staff in the mansion, she decides against it, opting instead to summon Aquarius and ask her advice.

She does eventually end up telling the staff, just because it gets hard for her to sneak enough food out for all of them without Someone taking notice.

The dragon slayers are raised pretty much in secret around the mansion by the Staff and Aquarius, who passes through the gate with her own magic to take care of Erza when a handful of toddlers can’t, which is often.

That’s... about all I’ve thought about. Little bonus thoughts

I aged Natsu and Gajeel down quiet a bit, sense they’re approximately 12 when they get yeeted into the future in canon. I believe Sting and Rouge are Wendy aged though.

Metalicana uses She/Her and is Gajeel’s mom.

Weisslogia and Skiadrum are Dragon Married and raised Rouge and Sting together. They also didn’t twist their kids memories to make them think they killed them because Jesus Christ guys What The Fuck.

Rouge is Transgender and is still a little girl when thrown forward in time, he starts to transition in his teens

Wendy is very protective over Gajeel, same way Sting is protective over Rouge. She’s also usually the one to comfort him. When they get older Gajeel finds the whole ordeal really embarrassing.

Everyone dotes on Erza and as she gets older she gets rather embarrassed by it

Rouge outgrew Sting when they turned 6 and started slouching because he found a lot of comfort in being the same height as his brother. When they finally stop growing they’re on complete opposites of the height scale with Rouge being the tallest in the group and Sting being the shortest.

Also in this AU, Ultear gets to go home

She’s an incredibly short 12 years old due to all the experiments, compared to Grey who’s 8 and Lyon who’s 9. And Ur doesn’t die. Grey still has a lot of trauma around Deliora but he’s the youngest child now he doesn’t have the energy to go fight god. And Ultear would beat him upside the head for trying. Get your ass back in here you are Eight you are not fighting a mega demon on your own.

Turtle, Duck, Dragon, Horse: Ch. 8 excerpt

It’s a chilly afternoon when Bumi sits in on Hana’s worst training session since she arrived at Air Temple Island.

Under Jinora’s supervision, she and six other novitiates were walking the circle in a coordinated effort to create a sphere of solid wind nearly twice her height. Intimidating, but she’d managed it before. She actually wasn’t doing too terribly, until she caught sight of him out of the corner of her eye. Maybe it was excitement or performance anxiety or just the distraction, but that’s when it all went wrong. She immediately fell out of step with the others, but the more she tried to correct for it, the more unstable their formation became, until the sphere was a roiling squall-ball they were struggling just to contain.

Master Jinora stepped forward and summoned a gust with thought alone. “That’s, uh, impressive, but if you’ll slow down and back away, I can safely disper—”

Then it exploded, with a roar like a thunderclap in reverse. Thankfully, they were shielded from the worst of it by a barrier whipped up by their teacher, but it was a close thing.

Hana’s ears are still ringing when she makes in Bumi’s direction, ignoring the accusatory glances from her fellow novitiates. It’s obvious to all of them who messed things up, but they can’t prove anything, so whatever. Bumi, in contrast, just waves happily, absentmindedly petting Bum-Ju on his shoulder.

She stops five feet away from him and plants her hands on her hips. “What’re you doing here?”

“Hi to you, too,” he replies, slightly offended.

“Sorry, that sounded… I mean, did you need me for something?”

“Nope.”

“So, what, you popped by to watch me be a screw-up?”

“Well, I like to get a feel for where the newbies’re at. Didn’t think you’d be out with ‘em.”

She deflates a bit. “You saw how hopeless I am. I’ll be stuck with the newbies forever at this rate.”

“Nooo, no… Your bending’s just, uh, chaotic.” His smile is wide but not very convincing. Oh no. He’s trying to be nice. Her face burns at the realization. Pity is the last thing she wants from him, of all people.

He continues, “Form was great, though. Right, buddy?” He glances at the dragonfly-bunny, who shrugs. “Yeah, he thinks so, too.”

“…Thanks.” She stares past him, at the ground, wishing she were anywhere else. At the same time, Bumi’s easily her favorite person on Air Temple Island, and it’s usually such a treat being the focus of his attention. If only she could be anything other than a pathetic misfit in his eyes.

He puts a hand on her shoulder. “Hey, kid, don’t get hung up on it. We’ll figure it out.” His voice has gone all serious, worried.

“You don’t have to… be nice to me.”

“…Huh?”

“Because you feel sorry for me. I don’t want…” She feels her eyes flood with hot tears. In a panic, she slaps a hand over her face, harder than she intended. “Ow.”

Bumi clears his throat and calls over her head, across the courtyard, “Hey, Jinora, gonna steal Hana for a bit!”

“Oh, we’re all done!” she calls back, sounding less rattled than she probably feels. “No theft required.”

“Great! Seeya at dinner!” His hand slides down to Hana’s arm, sending a wave of goosebumps shivering along her shoulders and neck. She almost jumps when he mutters into her ear, “I know a good place to talk. No lookie-loos.”

Then they’re hurtling through the air, and she forgets about her shame for a sweet thirty seconds. His grip on her arm is firm, but she latches onto him anyway. Just survival instinct, she reminds herself, as she hears him laugh with her ear against his chest. He wraps an arm around her then, and she feels safer than she ever did on the ground.

Bumi sets them down in a little grassy clearing on the eastern edge of the island. It’s not far from one of his favorite places to have class, but without any obvious paths to it, you’d have to survey the island from the air to even know it exists. Or just know its layout like the back of your hand. It’s late afternoon, leaving most of it in the shade from nearby trees. What sunlight there is glows gold on dead grass. Framed by two stunted trees jutting from the cliff’s edge is the skyline of Republic City, painted gold as the grass. Bumi pulls a little ta-dah pose in front of it, which gets a smile out of her.

“That’s more like it,” he says, wearing his own smug grin. “Now what was that about you not wanting me to be nice?”

“I just meant…” She grasps at the air, like the words she needs to complete her thought are buzzing around her. “I don’t want you to feel like you have to go out of your way. For me.” It seems like a moot point now.

“Why not you?”

“I’m not cut out for this. You’re wasting your time.”

He laughs softly to himself and crosses his arms. For a moment, Hana’s terrified that he might be mocking her, but when he looks back up at her, his eyes are kind, and a little sad. “I know how ya feel,” he says with a shrug.

“How could you poss—”

Bumi just raises an eyebrow at her, and she slaps her hand over her face again. It stings worse than the first time, but she figures she deserves that.

“Fu— Nngh! I’m such an—” Hana drops down onto her haunches, holding her throbbing face in both hands. Maybe with enough pressure, she can shove the tears and snot back where they belong. “I’m sorry. Please don’t be mad.”

She hears him sit down across from her. “M’not mad, kid. Like I said, I’ve been where you are. More or less.” She steals a glance at him, seated maybe a foot away and wearing the city itself like his own personal aura. “I see you busting your ass to do what comes so easy to others, and I know what that does to ya. Shame and doubt. Anger. A lot of anger. It can make ya feel worthless…”

She nods and eases into a cross-legged sit, mirroring him.

“S’not true, though. Everyone’s worth something. You’re worth a lot. Trust me, I’ve got an eye for talent.” Bum-Ju, who’s been hovering at a respectful distance, picks that moment to park himself on her head. “See? So does he.”

Hana wipes her runny nose, trying to hide it at first, but Bumi’s expression is so genuinely affable that she feels silly for thinking he might judge her. He’s on her side. A goopy face won’t change that. For lack of better options, she wipes up with a sleeve.

Hands dry, she reaches up, tentatively, to pet the dragonfly-bunny. “Is it okay if I…?”

“That’s up to him.”

The spirit doesn’t flee at her touch. In fact, he leans into it. She gasps as she runs her fingers through his fur, which is easily the softest, silkiest texture she’s ever felt, like yarn spun from cloudstuff. To her surprise, he gives a happy little chirrup and plops into her lap, landing on his back.

“He says to tell you he wants belly rubs.”

“Heh. Okay.” Petting Bum-Ju is supremely soothing, like lemonade on a summer’s day. His quiet little chirps merge and blend into a purr, and she smiles again. How could she not?

“It… It’s humiliating. I knew training wasn’t gonna be easy, but this is like being a little kid all over again.” She runs a finger along the edge of one of the spirit’s strange insectoid wings. Like the fur, it doesn’t feel entirely substantial. “I was supposed to be an earthbender, y’know.”

“Yeah? Says who?”

“…My dad.”

“Hah! Ain’t that always the way?”

“Heh…”

“You don’t give me earthbender vibes at all. You’re too… squishy.”

Her head shoots up to glare at him, and she notices how the sunlight’s shifted since they arrived. Twilight’s creeping up fast. “Did you just call me squishy?”

She’s caught him off-guard, and he blushes at the unflattering implications of such a word choice. “That’s to say… Well, the way rocks aren’t, right? Does that make sense?”

“No…?”

“You’re, I dunno, airy.”

“So I’m squishy like air…?”

Bumi runs a hand through his hair in actual frustration. “Forget I said you were squishy!” He looks relieved when she giggles and clues him into her teasing.

“My point being,” she continues blithely, “I may be the worst airbender here, but I had no earth talent whatsoever. Dad was not pleased. I never even wanted to do it, except to please him.”

“Sorry.”

“I have a little brother, though, and he’s brilliant with earth. Stone, glass, metal. You name it. Guess it worked out for Dad in the end, but I always… Even though it was crazy, I always wanted to fly. Not in an airship, but like the birds do. It never seemed fair.” She winces at how naive that sounds. “After Harmonic Convergence, I thought, y’know, finally. This is who I’m supposed to be.” Sympathy fills the lines around Bumi’s eyes and mouth, and she looks back down at the fuzzy spirit in her lap. She gives him some experimental chin scritches, which seem to go over well. “But it’s been more than three months now, and I’m still… I’m just a screw-up.”

“You’re the best teaching assistant I’ve ever had.”

Hana blinks. “Aren’t I the only one you’ve ever had?”

“Nah, I used to spend summers teaching new recruits arts ‘n’ crafts.”

“That doesn’t make any sense.”

“Says somebody who has no idea how boring it can get on a tour of duty! Keeping your hands busy staves off Sea Madness. And fistfights… Well, that is until somebody badmouths another guy’s macramé. I’ve been called as a witness at some crazy court martials, lemme tell ya.”

“I… Wow, okay. I guess you’d know.”

“And before I forget, let’s get one thing clear,” says Bumi, leaning forward and pointing right in her face. “I like being around you. Aren’t we friends?”

What’s the appropriate response to that? “You… friend… with me?” Well, it’s definitely not that. “I guess I didn’t… I thought you were just trying to figure me out. What’s wrong with me, I mean.”

“That, too, but hey! We have fun, right?”

“Yeah?”

“There ya go! Friends!”

She laughs. She can’t help it. Seeing the way Bumi’s face lights up only makes her laugh harder. Bum-Ju launches clear of her lap as she doubles over. Collapsed on the grass, she finally admits, “Okay! We’re friends! I guess!”

“So…” Only when she sees his shoulders relax does Hana realize how tense he’s been this whole time. “You always wanted to fly, huh?”

“Oh, yeah. More than anything. Thought I could grow up to be a bird if I put in the effort, but I was forced to develop an overactive imagination instead.”

“Sounds like a fun story.”

She pushes herself back into a sitting position and picks bits of grass out of her hair. She could do with a trim, now that she’s thinking about it. “Not a whole lot to tell. I was basically a toddler, and I don’t remember much.”

“Yeah?” Bumi’s grinning at her. He grins a lot, to be fair, but he has a different style for every occasion. Goofball, smart-ass, encouraging, nervous, and so on. This is a pure look of amused contentment, just for her. It makes her feel all gooey inside, but in a nice way, no snot involved.

“Hm. Well, okay. Mom did tell me about one time she found me eating worms out of the garden.”

“Hah! What’d it taste like?”

“Slimy dirt, probably? I only know it happened from Mom. Like I said, toddler.”

Bumi scratches his neck and looks off to the side, like he’s debating something with himself, then says, “I jumped off cliffs a lot.”

“Wow. Dark.”

“Into the water! Got pretty good at climbing. Diving, too, but that’s just, y’know, falling with style.”

“Umbrellas.” He looks at her expectantly, eyes glittering like chips of ice. They might be the palest she’s ever seen, and if they aren’t the most beautiful, they’re definitely in the top five. That’s a strange thought. Despite his age, he’s actually quite handsome. In fact, the wrinkles themselves emphasize his features in a way she didn’t realize she appreciated until just now. They tell a story of a life well-lived.

A quirk of his eyebrows reminds her that she’s in the middle of a conversation, during which she’s just said “umbrellas” and stared at him for ten seconds.

“W-well. Um. I saw this character in a storybook who flew around with an umbrella, so I found the biggest one I could and ran down the street, screaming my head off the whole time.” Hana feels herself blush at the admission. “That part seemed important for some reason. I was, like, five.”

“How’d that go?”

“As I recall, I broke the umbrella, and several people called the cops. They thought I was escaping from a murderer or something. Can’t imagine why.”

Bumi just laughs. Hana revels in it until he quiets enough to keep telling him embarrassing things about herself.

“Then there was the time I spent a month collecting loose feathers around my neighborhood and stuffed them all in my shirt,” she says, with a bit of added pantomime. “Was gonna jump out the apartment window, but I chickened out.”

“So… it worked?”

“Shut up. You are horrible, and I hate you now.”

“Minus 57 points for disrespecting your elder.”

“Hey, it’s not my fault they dress me like a giant baby.” She tugs at a corner of the scarlet shawl sewn around the shoulders of her standard-issue Air Nomad pajamas. They both snicker.

Then Bumi sits up straight like he’s been struck by lightning. “I got it!”

“Hm?”

“A wingsuit. Try one on!”

“That’s not really allowed unless you’ve qualified, though.”

“Eh, if you get in trouble, I’ll smooth it over,” he says with a little hand wave. “It could be just the confidence boost you need to get over whatever mental block is tripping you up.” He gestures at his own outfit. “Think about it. The right uniform can totally change how you see yourself. And I should know.”

“That’s a good point, but…” Hana shrugs and makes various non-committal noises. What she doesn’t mention is her discomfort at the snugness of the wingsuit’s fit. As ridiculous as the pajamas look on her, they’re at least loose and comfortable. Squeezing into a skintight flight suit to practice—probably clumsily as ever—is just another humiliation waiting to happen. It does give her an idea, though.

“Remember when I told you how I’ve had a bit of Kyoshi Warrior training?” she asks with a little smirk.

“I remember you not flipping me, even after I asked nicely.”

“Well, I might still have my fan lying around somewhere…”

Ducklings & Dimples 2

Original / Sequel

➜ Words: 17.1k

➜ Genres: 58% Fluff, 20% Adventure, 20% Action, 2% Angst, Historical!AU - kind of

➜ Summary: After your adventures with Yoongi, you head home to face your family and the duties you've run from. A year has passed since. But you never anticipated meeting him again with his fiancée.

The country of Pegan is one you’ve never had the opportunity to venture into. It was a place that you teetered on, scaling the border, poking your head into one or two of the small villages just to sell in before you were on your way. But you had heard lots about it in his letters. You just never thought you would be visiting it in such a way. Ten round towers form a protective barrier around the elegant castle and are connected by firm walls made of gray stone. Refined windows are scattered generously across the walls in an asymmetric pattern. Beyond the gates are well kept gardens with fragrant flowers, gorgeous trees and many bushes that decorate the outside of the castle. The castle itself has clearly been around for at least a thousand years, but it doesn't seem like it will collapse any time soon. “Back straight. You’re slouching, Taehyung,” your mother barks to your youngest brother and sharply inhales when Jin purposely bumps into him with his broad shoulders, telltale signs he’s trying to instigate more bickering. “Stop that right now, young man. You’re supposed to set an example as the eldest.” “I wasn’t even doing anything!” Jin protests to no avail. Taehyung’s mouth curls as he jumps on the opportunity to berate his older brother, “You’re twenty six. You should act like it.” Seokjin’s mouth drops open. “How dare you bring my age into this.” “Can you guys please shut your mouths for one second?” Lia is exasperated and glares. “People are staring at us.” “Now, now, children.” Your dad clears his throat and brushes off his shoulders. “Let’s not give your mother a hard time and argue in front of the Duchess’ castle.” Your mother holds in her sigh temporarily and makes it to your sister, smoothing out her dress that’s been wrinkled from the carriage ride. “Hair in place, darling.” Then she makes it to the end of the line and looks at you. Your eyes meet hers and you anticipate nagging. Perhaps an insult of how strands of hair have fallen from your updo and around your eyes. Or how you should get rid of that frown off your face before she singes it off. But to your surprise, your mother merely smiles and swivels around. “Shall we enter?” She’s trying — you can see it and it’s an effort you appreciate. Your entire family climbs the marble steps leading up to the grand doors already open with folks filtering inside. It was the Duchess of Pegan’s birthday, a week long affair and evidently, a huge celebration. Much too extravagant for your own tastes, but it’s not like your opinion matters. “Kaela, Elden!” The man in the foyer comes over with a golden chalice and his wife trails after him. Immediately, your mother curtsies along with your sister and you dip down after a delayed second, momentarily forgetting the manners drilled into your brain. “Duke and Duchess Fesan. It’s a pleasure.” “Oh please, don’t be a stranger. It’s been too long!” The older man has silver, short hair that almost fully covers his thin, lived-in face. But his eyes are fond as if he has seen many good things in his lifetime. Fesan Winsor is a duke, brother to the king that runs Pegan. You only know such facts after the relentless history lessons with your overbearing tutor. He gives a light embrace to your mother and father, nods his head towards you and Lia, and shakes Seokjin’s hand. “Why, you’ve grown to be such a strapping, young man. Handsome, indeed. The last I’ve seen of you, you were but a wee boy.” “Thank you.” Jin practically beams over the praise and you and Taehyung roll your eyes. “Are you looking to get married any time soon?” His irises sparkle. “Do you have someone in mind, your grace?” The Duke barks out laughing at the witty quip and your mother audibly sighs. “Seokjin’s much too deep in finishing his studies to be considering marriage, unfortunately. And a bit too immature to handle the responsibilities of such a thing.” “Oh you never know about children,” Duchess Jacquelyn laughs boisterously. “They always grow up faster than we realize.” The Duchess is in a lavish dress that looks like it’s about to swallow her whole, flashy to the maximum and heavy diamonds are wrapped around her neck. It makes you wonder if it aches. Her golden hair is stark with a bit of gray, yet she is bright eyed and overly friendly as she squeezes the living daylights out of Lia and then you. It’s unusual how she has no respect for personal boundaries or what’s mannerly for a high-class lady that she is. There’s small talk made between your father and the Duke, but as the Duchess pulls away from you, her face lights up as if she recalls something. “Wait a moment! You are Y/N, correct?” “Uh, yes. I am, madam.” “Then you were the one who defeated that vicious dragon from the North with Yoongi, weren’t you?! Why your tale of bravery is infamous!” She grasps your hands with an excited smile. You swallow hard, not sure how you feel about being viewed as a hero when you’re not. But you don’t say anything for fear of having to explain. It’s not like you told your own family the true story. “Yes, what an amazing feat,” Duke Winsor marvels. “You must be very prideful to have such a hero in the family.” Your mother is visibly pleased while your dad plops a hand on your shoulder. “Y/N is indeed turning out to be the best sorcerer in our family.” “You would be too if you studied more,” Taehyung mutters to Lia and nudges her while she glares at him. “What about you, Mr. I’m-too-tired-to-practice-magic.” “Children,” your mother’s voice is full of scolding but a pleasant smile is placed on her features. It’s frightening and jarring how different her expression can be from what comes out of her mouth. “Oh, you must be so eager to see your old friend.” The Duchess turns over her shoulder. “Yoongi was here just a moment ago.” You nod stiffly, tight-lipped. “I’ll make sure to send my greetings to him later.” The middle-aged folks continue talking as you and the rest of your siblings stand there like stone statues that are decorating the castle. But as you look around the crowds, fearing the worst, you feel Jin poke you. “Was that the guy you were sending letters to every day?” he asks, referring to what Duchess Jacquelyn said. “Shut it.” Taehyung raises his brows with an amused smile, but no one speaks. It’s become a sensitive topic but always has been — you’ve never let any of them see your letters and you threw a big fuss on several occasions when Lia tried to sneak peaks. Now you regret it. Why did you spend so much time doing such petty, futile things. Eventually, you’re granted mercy when the Duke and Duchess continue welcoming new arrivals and everyone disperses for drinks. And unlike what they said, you’re not eager to see your old ‘friend’ at all. You’re trying to steer clear of him. “What are you doing standing here in the corner?” Your mother finds you reclusive with a flute of ale. It’s not the most sophisticated drink, but does enough to put you more at ease. Though, much to your dismay, she pries the glass out of your grip. “You should be socializing! Making connections. Like your brother!” She turns and you see Taehyung by the refreshment table with a younger girl who looks visibly uncomfortable. He barks out in deafening laughter, startling a few other guests and your mother sighs while you hold back a smile. “Maybe not quite like him.” “Is there something you want to say, mom?” It’s not like her to be so vague and to encourage you to talk to others. She’s always been apprehensive about you mingling, assuming you’re trying to scam them — which you usually are, so her caution isn’t unreasonable. “There’s a divine soul sorcerer,” she announces and instantly, you groan. “Of course there is.” “Don’t give me that look. You haven’t even spoken to him yet.” Unlike how you receive your magic from a legendary phoenix, divine soul sorcerers are blessed individuals who have a connection to divine beings. Whether they align with an ancient prophecy or their ancestor is an angel. They’re undoubtedly someone who could match the status of your family. You’re starting to suspect the reason your mother even came all the way over here was to get you to meet him. “Fine, I’ll talk to him,” you say, just to get her off your back. Your mother’s wrinkles crease when she smiles. “Good to hear. Now that’s one less issue off my plate— “ “I think Taehyung’s trying to impress that girl,” you interrupt, tilting your body over to the youngest who’s about to set the tablecloth on fire. Your mother practically swears underneath her breath and goes marching over without bidding you farewell. There’s a faint smile on your features and as a Halfling waiter passes, you grab a glass of manycherries wine. You release a long exhale, feeling your eyes bags deepen as exhaustion sets into you. Your eyes flicker to the fire roaring underneath the mantle. The rose and orange flames glow against your cheeks. Your fingers. And incidentally, it grows stronger. You feel the fire envelop you. The chatter of the room simmers down as you focus on the crackle and pop of the inferno. But unfortunately, it doesn’t last long. Not with the shrill voices close to you— “It’s a surprise, no? Even the Duke’s fiftieth birthday wasn’t as extravagant as this. All five houses are here and they even extended the invitations to families beyond Pegan.” “Well perhaps they had a good season or maybe one of the houses expanded their territory and we just haven’t heard about it yet. The Duke and Duchess looks after the entire territory and all the faction houses. It’s only natural they benefit from any changes, right?” “Don’t you two know?” “Know what?” “The reason this celebration is lavish….is because it’s practically an engagement party in disguise.” You exhale out of your nose, downing the glass of wine and when you finish, you see a familiar face in the midst. It’s a slender half-Elf with long blonde hair that’s half tied up and reaches to his ribs. Yorril. You remember his name after beating his ass with Yoongi in Bogsburrough a year ago. The memory causes the corner of your mouth to tug in a smirk. He sees you too and immediately turns away, walking off with his eyes wide. There are lots of people from different factions here, but you don’t know any of their names and don’t care to. Though out of the corner of your eye, you catch sight of a tall man in a white cape fluttering behind with his eyes focused right on you — undoubtedly the divine sorcerer your mother was referring to by his blinding aura — and you take Yorril’s inspiration and walk away as well. You drop your glass on a nearby table and zip into the dark hallway without looking back. You’re not sure where you’re going, merely winding down the corridors. But eventually your steps slow. Goosebumps raise all over the back of your arm. It feels like you’re being watched. Like there’s someone creeping. That there’s a presence behind you. But before you can turn around to discern what it is, a husky timbre makes you halt. “...alright?” At once your body seizes, freezing in its stop. Your blood runs warmer and your back meets the stone wall. There’s a sliver of light coming from the parted door inches away and you pull your orb out from the secret pocket you sewn into your dress. Gripping the object, you channel your magic and cast clairvoyance. The hearing sensor is placed behind the door. “Thank you, Yoongi.” It’s an unfamiliar soft-spoken voice. You hear his hum. “You’re welcome.” “I’m sorry. I know there’s a lot of people out there. I didn’t think my mother would invite so many people. It’s usually not like her to do this and—” “Hey, it’s okay. You don’t need to apologize. I don’t mind as much as you think I do.” “Really?” “I can’t say I enjoy it, but it’s not so bad every so often.” You swallow hard, feeling your heart clog your throat. Though before you can hear another thing, a hand plops down on your shoulder. And you nearly shriek in surprise. Out of all people, you turn to find dad wearing a mischievous smile that Taehyung and Seokjin inherited, and he nudges his chin to the door. “Your mother wouldn’t like you eavesdropping, you know. Come on, let’s go back.” You nod, following after him. The two of you return to the main room and step out into the terrace, away from the crowd. “There’s plenty of other men out there, Y/N.” “I know,” you mutter without looking at him, unable to help sulking. The older man smiles, having an inkling of why you’ve been so quiet. “It’s okay for you to be upset. Everything’s a process of trial and error. And it’s something that’ll come and go in due time.” You sigh lightly, trying to muster a smile that never really comes. “You want me to meet that divine soul sorcerer like mom, don’t you?” “Heavens no.” Your dad pats you on the back as you look out into the gardens. “I just want the best for my daughter.” You meet his eye and he grins. It’s moments like these that you’re glad you came home. “Elden!” The pair of you turn around as an older woman with cat-like eyes and a piercing stare steps out onto the terrace, her slender black dress sparkling like the stars. “My goodness, it’s been ages!” “Hyoyeon.” Your dad gives a laugh. “You haven’t aged a day!” They come to an embrace and she pulls away. “Oh, you’re too kind. Have you met my son yet?” Your worst nightmare emerges. Yoongi is dressed in a black tunic, pants, boots and a black velvet cape draped over his left side. He looks less like a knight on a quest and more like a prince. But one thing that hasn’t changed is his duckling-like hair. Strands of pale yellow that stand out. His eyes immediately center on you in surprise. As if he wasn’t expecting you here. And of course he wasn’t. You hated functions and celebrations like these, but once you heard the rumours, you couldn’t help but beg to come. Or maybe he’s giving you that expression because of how odd you look. You suppose he’s never seen you in anything other than braids and that peasant dress that you used to disguise yourself in. Now, your mother wouldn’t catch you dead in attire like that. But with him comes the Duke’s daughter, Fesan Klarinda, the Marquise of Pegan. She’s petite with spiral curls and dimples dotted in each side of her cheek. She’s the epitome of delicate. Instantly, the girl looks between you and Yoongi, realizing that your gazes are locked into one another’s. “Y/N.” He breathes it out and something swells inside your throat to hear him call your name. It’s hard to keep your face blank and impassive. Yoongi’s mother glances at him and then you. “You know each other?” “She was my partner during my adventure.” “She helped you defeat the dragon? Y/N from the great Phoenix family?” his mother gasps and nudges him. With her teeth gritted, she mutters, “Why didn’t you tell me that? Had I known….” Your dad’s laugh cuts through the suffocating tension. “Such a small world indeed. But I’m glad to finally meet the man who protected my daughter. Congratulations on your engagement, son.” “It’s nice to meet you,” Yoongi’s fiancée says with a demure smile and you give a curtsy without uttering a word. “Is your eldest son here, Hyoyeon?” “Oh, Hoseok unfortunately couldn’t make it to the occasion. He’s busy studying arcane magic in a monk temple in Baldur's Gate. So I only have my youngest with me today.” “Not at all! Education is of the utmost priority for the children.” While they speak, Klarinda clears her throat. “There must be a lot to catch up on since you and Yoongi are fairly close, I heard.” “Yes, he is a great friend to me, my lady.” Yoongi’s eye twitches, but you pay no mind. You don’t speak a single word to him and while it’s terribly awkward, you seize the opportunity to leave. “I find myself a bit parched. If you'll excuse me.” You get away as quickly as you can while grabbing fistfuls of your heavy dress, feeling more strands falling out of your updo. But being out of his presence doesn’t mean you’ve escaped. You feel the weight of Yoongi’s intent gaze on you all night, from across the room to the table. You’re barely able to survive dinner and the food’s not at all charred enough to your tastes. You’re beginning to regret coming here. Even when you knew you had to see it for yourself. “Excuse me. I believe you are Lady Y/N, right?” After dinner, the divine soul sorcerer finally corners you at a moment when your guard is down, having been too focused on Yoongi. The man has silver hair neatly coiffured, but the colour isn’t from age nor is it lackluster. It matches his cape and white attire. Undoubtedly, the sorcerer has an otherworldly appearance. He’s handsome and practically radiant to that of an angel’s. And he draws attention, causing girls to turn their heads and swoon for him. You can only imagine his power and it’s no wonder your mother has insisted that you meet him. But you are far from being impressed. “You are?” “Allow me to introduce myself! I am Jinha, a favoured soul sorcerer. Son of the magnificent Concordia House here in Pegan. My ancestor was the chosen one of the Goddess Mystra.” His palm opens and he glances at your hand. But you don’t entertain the idea of him kissing your knuckles, so he retracts his arm after an awkward moment. He clears his throat. “You look absolutely ravishing. The most beautiful person at this party aside from myself of course,” he quips. You deadpan, “Thanks.” “Are you enjoying the party?” Hardly. “I am.” “Have you tried any of the crab-stuffed lobster tail yet—?” “I much prefer the wine.” You grab a glass from the tray of a stubby butler passing by and you down half of it. When you lower the glass, you find that he’s still there, smirking like an idiot. While this relationship would be textbook perfect, you hate sorcerers. You are one, have three siblings that are, spent your childhood surrounded by them. So you know best how arrogant and entitled sorcerers can be. You bet he spends his free time looking in the mirror. Plus, there’s already enough magic in you for two people. “I happened to speak to your mother earlier, Lady Y/N.” “Did you?” “She said you’ve been traveling before. I have been traveling across the lands myself, so we have quite a bit in common.” “Yes,” you answer in a monotone and then your eyes light up as you spin around on your heel to him. “Actually, she might’ve not told you but I run a business.” “A business?” “I’m a business woman. It’s gotten a bit pushed to the side since I’ve gotten home, but maybe I should start it back up again.” “What kind of business is it?” Jinha stands straighter as if to show how capable he is. “I would love to help.” “Would you?” A feigned coy smile comes across your face and you lean in to graze his shoulder. “I have quite a bit of valuables collected and a lot of ancient potions I sell. All from my travels. You’re actually very fortunate since I have one with me. Would you like to buy one? I’ll be willing to give it to you at a reduced price of ten gold pieces.” Since the first time you’ve arrived, you feel energy return to you. But then much to your dismay, the damned sorcerer apologizes— “I don’t actually have any gold on me right now.” “How about your ring.” You point downward, never breaking eye contact. “This is once in a lifetime opportunity.” Either your skills are rusty or he’s denser than a rock because your persuasions don’t get through. “I would never dare to give you such a worthless ring, Lady Y/N! With so many shiny valuables practically overflowing out of the hundreds of rooms at my enormous manor, you deserve something much more precious. Perhaps we could arrange a time when you could come visit my massive estate.” You audible sigh, not even trying to hide it. For the next ten minutes, the sorcerer bores you with speech about himself, his family, how he personally knows the Duke, how he’s expanding his manor to have two more gardens and five more fountains, and how delicious the crab-stuffed lobster tail is. You barely manage to escape, simply excusing yourself to find your sister. But as you turn the corner, away from prying eyes and ears, you grip your orb in your pocket and channel your arcane magic. You cast disguise self and at once, you take the form of the stubby butler from earlier. A foot shorter, larger, and white tailcoat with black breeches. Your empty glass even turns into a tray and you strut down the corridor with your head held high. You’re going to leave. Out the front door. Never to return. Coming here was a mistake — and confronting Yoongi isn’t something you think you have in you. You’re better suited to having no real relationships, no commitment, no attachments. Merely traveling around and scamming others is what you do best. After all, things were easier back then when you had no direction. There was less emotional turmoil. Fewer obligations. Fewer consequences. But regrets are a little too late, so in the heat of the moment, you throw away your hard-earned compromise with your mother and decide to run. Yet, before you can even think of launching yourself out the open arched window, your eyes grow wide at the man at the end of the hall. Yellow strands of hair catch your attention first. Then it’s the sleepy eyes. The tender features. Immediately, you pull your gaze away from him and stare ahead. It’s not too hard to make yourself unsuspicious when you’re disguised as a butler and Yoongi seems to pay no mind to you either. He merely walks past and you breathe a sigh of relief. But then strong arms wrap around your waist and your back meets a firm chest. The spell breaks. He saw right through you. Right through your illusion. Yoongi’s soft exhale causes goosebumps to rise all over your arms. “Thank god, it’s you. I was worried that it was really the butler.” His timbre is huskier than you remember. You stumble out of his embrace and turn around. “I apologize, sir. I wasn’t trying to create any trouble. ” “Sir?” Yoongi’s brows furrow, deep enough that it looks like it hurts. Neither of you say anything for a long moment as he stares at you and you divert your vision, preferring to admire how smooth the white pillars of the castle look. Then, his hand suddenly reaches out to graze the loose strands of hair that have fallen from your updo. It’s a gentle gesture and he quietly comments, “Your hair’s gotten longer.” But you don’t react. “How have you been?” he asks faintly. “Fine.” You keep your reply curt and short. Distant. “Congratulations on your engagement, sir.” “Y/N.” He sounds annoyed. “Let me explain—” But when you finally meet his gaze, your eyes are painfully stinging and his voice tapers off. You curse underneath your breath, having tried so hard to keep yourself together. Yet the effort to prevent humiliation is being swept down the drain, so you grab fistfuls of your dress and march away. “Y/N!” Yoongi doesn’t chase after you. You snivel violently, doing all you can to not let tears shed. You fail to watch where you’re going and you run into your older sister. “Where have you…..are you okay?” Lia looks down at you, her eyes wide at your state. You merely shake your head and her lips pout as she pulls you in. She doesn’t need to ask. “It’s okay. There, there. No one’s going to hurt you.” She’s wrong. You’ve already been hurt. // Min Yoongi is a bastard. You’ve sorely underestimated his abilities. He manipulates emotions better than you can, but you’re more so angry at yourself for misinterpreting memories. For allowing your imagination to take its course. After all, it’s easier to transform your hurt into anger than reveling in sorrow. You’ve never been the type to be passive. The morning after the banquet, there are tournaments out on the East field. You’re seated at the rows near the Duke and Duchess with the rest of your family. Taehyung is watching intently while Seokjin prefers to wave to girls seated a few seats down much to your mother’s dismay. You’re sitting beside Lia who has her parasol to shield the sun away and is fanning herself to keep sweat from her face. She hasn’t teased you about last night, not when it looked serious enough. But she hasn’t pried either, even though you know eventually she will. Curiosity has always been a fault in your family — second to recklessness. You watch as two men below fight, one with a bow and the other with a mace. You don’t recognize them, merely knowing they’re from different factions. And that they seem to be taking their hatred out on each other. “Ooh.” Taehyung sharply inhales when the Elf with the mace slashes the Half-Elf holding the bow. “That looks like it hurts.” The Half-Elf surrenders and the Halfling referee calls an end to the match. “It’s so hot out,” Lia pants and wipes her forehead with a handkerchief. “Since when did you care about sweating or not?” you ask, lolling your head to the side. She clicks her tongue. “Tch. Don’t you know how many potential suitors are here? I have to look my best. You should too.” “Can I leave?” you ask your mother, tilting yourself to her. Seokjin whirls his head around. “I second that.” “Absolutely not,” she hisses and glances over her shoulder, making sure that the Duke and Duchess aren’t listening. “We are honoured guests and it would be very rude.” “At least wait until the intermission,” your father adds with a charming smile. With that said, you sit back and try to get comfortable. From below, the Halfling referee steps up to his podium and announces through a cone, “For our next match, on the right is Jinha, divine sorcerer from the House of Concordia. And to our left is Yoongi, knight fighter from the House of Min and the Order of the Black Sun!” Your breath hitches in your throat. Immediately, Lia nudges you. “Who’s that?” Her eyes are pinpointed to the obnoxious man from last night who emerges while sweeping his hair back, his golden staff carried in his grasps. But you’re preoccupied with the other man. Someone with pastel yellow hair. Even from far away, it’s all too stark against his heavy armour. And you swear he’s looking right at you. Or maybe not. It could be for his fiancée who’s diagonal to where you are. That would make more sense. You damn yourself for being delusional again. “So that’s him?” Taehyung turns to you, asking, “The one you sent letters to?” “I never did such a thing,” you mutter. The Halfling shouts at the top of his lungs and the match begins. Yoongi grips his rapier in his hands and closes the distance. He hits twice, slamming down the blade onto Jinha with narrowed eyes and then surges forward for a critical hit. His accuracy and precision has become more refined since the last time you saw him fight. Yet, Jinha never bumbles or falls to his knees in spite of the brutality. He tightens his grip on his staff, jaw clamping down. He casts burning hands. His fingers spread and a thin sheet of flames shoots forth from his outstretched fingertips. It causes Yoongi to stumble back and the sorcerer turns his head, flashing a bright grin towards the rows, undoubtedly for you. But you aren’t fazed — not when you’re at the edge of your seat, gaze placed on Yoongi. Lia, on the other hand, is the one who’s impressed. Her jaw draws open, a soft gasp befalling her lips as she covers her mouth with a gloved hand. Across the field, your eyes lock into Yoongi’s. And then he’s moving again, blade slashing thrice. Jinha surrenders. “I should challenge you!” Taehyung suddenly breaks both you and Lia’s trance with his loud and startling voice, looking directly at Seokjin with a rectangular grin. “Do you want to fight?” “Actually, that doesn’t sound like a bad idea.” A wide smile spreads into your older brother’s face. “Do you think you could take me on?” Taehyung’s already rolling up his sleeves. “You’re just going to have to wait and s—” Your mother immediately pulls him down with the force of gravity itself. Her eyes pierce into your siblings. “Absolutely not! I won’t have any of my children fighting and hurting themselves!” The Halfling referee turns. “Does anyone want to challenge the victor of this mat—” You stand. “I do!” Your mother is absolutely mortified. Your father is taken aback. Taehyung is already smiling with a murmured ‘awesome’ while both Seokjin and Lia are visibly amused. There’s little your parents can do too when the Duchess starts clapping and hollering for you to enter the field and the Duke wishes you luck, citing that he’s excited to see the true capabilities of your household. “For our next match on the right is Y/N, phoenix sorcerer from the Kim Phoenix Household. And to our left is Yoongi, knight fighter from the House of Min and the Order of the Black Sun!” From the distance, no one can hear the two of you. No one can discern the way Yoongi’s looking at you. How he’s deflated, sword drooping by his side, his form not at all ready. “I’m not going to fight you,” Yoongi declares with the furrow of his brows. You scoff. “Then you’re weak.” Gripping your spellcasting focus, your blazing red and orange swirling orb, you channel your magic and cast fireball. A bright streak flashes from your pointing finger towards him, blossoming with a low roar into an explosion of flames. But it misses when he nimbly dodges out of the range. The spectators cheer, on the edge of their seats. Yoongi, realizing that you’re not conceding, moves towards you. He grips his rapier and hits twice, bringing his blade down to slash. You sharply inhale, but keep your feet rooted into the ground and as he raises his arm for the third time, it slips. The weapon falls to the ground. “Pick it up,” you spit at him in Elvish, straightening out your spine again. Gasping, you cast Melf’s Minute Meteors and six tiny meteors manifest. They float in the air and orbit you until you send both of them towards him. It misses, exploding on the ground instead. Yoongi grabs his sword, but when he hits you, it’s weak. It barely skims you. Doesn’t even break through skin. And he drops his rapier again. “Keep going! Don’t stop!” This time, the shout isn’t coming from you but from Duchess Jacquelyn who’s crazed as she grips the banister and cackles maniacally. The Duke stares at her in discomfort at how wrapped up she is and Yoongi’s fiancée, Klarinda, shakes her head. “Mom.” You have no plans of surrendering. Even if you drop dead here. You cast fireball again and this time, the blossoming roar of the flames consumes Yoongi. You hear him cry out in agony and you send two meteors orbiting you his way. One misses, but the other one explodes on his chest. Yoongi’s teeth clenches. His knuckles turn white. But before he surges forward with his rapier, the smoke dissipates and he sees you. Tears in your eyes. The trembling of your bottom lip. The quivering of your entire frame. And no one hears when you softly curse him— “Bastard.” Yoongi drops his sword into the dirt. “I forfeit.” At once, Klarinda races down the rows, grabbing fistfuls of her dress. “Excuse me, pardon me!” She races down the field undignified, but to resume to her fiancé’s side. She searches his expression. “A-Are you alright, Yoongi? I can heal you.” She casts cure wounds and presses her palms to his pectorals over his armour. And after she does so, she looks between you and Yoongi. But by that time, you’ve long grabbed your own dress and marched off the field, leaving the two lovers behind. At the exact same moment, a ghostly presence fades from the open arched window on the fourth floor, their eyes having been pinpointed on your figure for the entirety of the match. // There’s someone watching you. You can tell with the way goosebumps raise all over the back of your arm, hairs on the back of your neck lifted, how there’s a sudden weight of someone’s stare on your shoulders. It feels like there’s someone creeping, a presence behind you. Your heel pivots. “Yoon—” But it isn’t him or any of your siblings. A translucent force tries to push itself into your body, causing your words to choke in your throat, your weakened knees to stumble back. Your lungs wither and your throat dries as the remaining air inside you wheezes out. But you resist. With all the strength left inside of you. You use your remaining energy to prevent the force from taking control, from entering and intruding. And in the next moment, it slips out and flounders in front of you. What would be a terrified shriek ends up as coughs as you gasp for air. “W-What in the holy fuck—” It’s a ghost. A chubby man in white sleeping silks, his dark hair brushing against his shoulders, but his form translucent and feet floating inches off the cobblestone hall. Your seething fire running through your blood flares. It seeps out and magically wreathes around you as your eyes glow as hot coals. You lift your finger to him, threatening to attack and he steps back. “Hold on there! Don’t be hasty!” the ghost spits in panic. “I sincerely apologize for my blunder!” “Who are you?! What were you trying to do to me?!” “My name is Leo and I just wanted to borrow your body for a bit! You see...I have some unfinished business.” There’s an extended silence. Then you lower your arm and the fire drawn back into you. Your stare is unwavering and Leo musters a smile on his thin lips, wrinkles around his eyes creasing. “In hindsight, I should have asked. I apologize for intruding.” You scoff, guard still up. “What’s your unfinished business?” “Ah, I would like to see the sunrise one last time.” The ghost turns to glance out the window. “Someone once tried to banish me away, so now I’m in a quite unstable form. I am only able to venture in this realm when it is day or night when time itself is stable. I disappear every time there is a sunset or sunrise.” Your brow lifts. “So you’ve been haunting this castle?” “Well, I can’t leave if I have unfinished business.” Leo smiles at you, eyes almost hopeful. “Whoever tried to banish you should’ve done it properly,” you deadpan. Getting rid of this ghost could be your birthday present to the Duchess. “I don’t know the banishment spell unfortunately. But my older brother does.” You start to march down the hall, but the ghost follows after you frantically. “Please don’t banish me! I beg of you! Please!” It’s an opportunity and you seize it. Your feet halt and you twist to him with a smirk growing. “Then what will you offer me?” “Offer you?” “As payment.” Your arms cross. “We can strike a fair deal. If you want to borrow my body, I’ll let you. But only if you can give me gold.” The ghost bursts out in hearty laughter that streams from his chest. “I don’t have anything to my name anymore, dear sorcerer. Certainly not gold. I’m dead!” Your face morphs into impassivity, lips drawn into a tight line. “Then I’m afraid I can’t help you.” Yet, he still follows relentlessly, floating to your left and to your side, eyes plastered onto your profile. “Oh, but can’t you offer me even half a day out of the kindness of thy own heart? Surely you must feel pity for a ghost like me that’s forced to wander this castle with no end. I will leave when my business is complete, that I can assure.” “Why don’t you go bother someone else?” “But you are special.” At that, your steps slow and he smiles again. “You know magic well and it reminds me of a certain someone.” “Who?” He hums and frowns. “I can’t seem to remember.” You scoff. After years of your business, of persuasion and deception, you can tell he’s not being entirely truthful. But before you can press on and coax the ghost’s true intentions out, there’s a noisy interruption. “Y/N!” Taehyung approaches with his mouth lopsided. “Who are you talking to?” You turn to your side, but the middle-aged ghost has vanished in thin air. “It was a ghost.” “What?” He looks at you as if you’ve gone crazy and maybe you have. “There aren’t ghosts here. Are you okay?” “I’m fine.” “I came to tell you that mom’s looking for you.” At your exaggerated sigh, Taehyung grins. “Trust me, it’s a lot worse than what you think.” He’s right. Your mother’s caught wind that a few youngsters are going boating and of course, she has to push her children into the private affair. You’re largely unamused, not a fan of being stuck in large bodies of water, even if it’s just a lake. “You have to go.” The moment she sharply enunciates the word, she pulls on the strings on your back laced bodice with all her might and you choke on air. “How else are you going to get married?” She doesn’t see you roll your eyes in the mirror. “My plan isn’t to get married.” “Well you never know what might happen. Keep an open mind.” Somehow, she thinks marriage will quell her troublesome daughters, especially you. But you can’t blame her for holding such an idea. At this point, she’s trying everything she can. “It’s time to be a little more ladylike after the whole tournament fiasco.” In the meanwhile, Lia is sitting in the corner, amused. She has a frilly, puffed up skirt of her own, a shade of light pink and on top of her head, a giant hat with flowers. She’s always been the prettier one. But as you turn to the mirror in your own blue summer dress your mother’s putting you in, you find that you aren’t half bad. Your mother knows you tend to get yourself dirty and that you don’t particularly enjoy being dressed up, so your attire is much less obnoxious and more subtle. It’s proof she’s thought about you. Eventually, your eyes drift off of your reflection to the flames dancing in the fireplace. You stare at the crimson light it gives, the way the subtle smoke that rises from it, curling towards the chimney. “There we are.” Your mother secures the last pins in your hair and smooths out your skirt. “Not too shabby, darling,” she says with a smile as if satisfied from her own work. You wonder what’s the point of trying. It’s not like anyone will be enamoured with you. The person who matters the most after all has already been taken. “You look absolutely beautiful this fine afternoon, Lady Y/N.” Your trance shatters and you look at the man blankly. “Jinha.” “Dare I say, you may be more lovely than you were last night!” He grins and you answer him in silence. You allow the noise of the surroundings to respond instead — the cawing of the birds, the sloshing of the water on the edge of the grass, your brothers laughing as the boats bump into the pier. The only mercy given to him is when Lia quite literally bumps into you and clears her throat loudly. “Ahem. Hello. I don’t believe we’ve met before.” The sorcerer’s smile widens. “Excuse me, but you are?” “I am Lia, Y/N’s older sister. But I’m not that much older. Only by two years. I’m turning twenty four.” You’ve never seen Lia flounder so much. It’s amusing to behold. “Oh, I knew Y/N had a sister, but I would’ve thought you were the younger sister,” Jinha says smoothly and her expression lights up even further. He takes her hand, placing a kiss upon her knuckles and you’re glad she’s taken his attention. Heaven knows you aren’t interested. But as you’re about to walk away, your line of sight falls to a familiar girl with dimples. Klarinda, the Duke’s daughter, is wearing a brimmed hat and her expensive silk skirt flutters with her. If she’s here then where’s— Yoongi’s staring right at you. As if he’s a predator and you’re merely the prey. Immediately, you return to Lia being overly flirtatious with Jinha. It’s bearable for a few minutes until you join your brothers who are horsing around and threatening to push one another into the lake. But out of the corner of your eye, you watch Yoongi and look away when your eyes meet. You know he’s watching you too. You try your best to stay focused on your surroundings. The strangers around were from different families and factions, civil with each other when they’re on the Duke’s grounds. At most, they send glares to their enemies. So you allow the polite, peaceful chatter to engulf you before everyone slowly gets onto the boats to row out and enjoy the lake. “Finally!” Taehyung suddenly twists around, holding a rope in hand. “I got it untied!” Jin facepalms himself. “You idiot! You’re supposed to untie the rope after everyone’s gotten in!” “What?” “Not to worry!” Jinha announces with a grin and nimbly hops inside the boat before it drifts too far off the pier. He holds out his hand for Lia and she gladly takes it with a giggle, being guided in. You watch at a loss for words as the boat gets farther and farther. Still, the divine sorcerer boldly holds out his hand for you. “Lady Y/N!” You hesitate. The boat is already full with four people and you’re not sure if it’s worth jumping in and potentially getting pulled into the lake. But suddenly, before you can make a decision, your waist is pulled back by strong arms. “It’s okay. She can come with me. There’s one left.” “Yoongi!” your gasp is sharp and you look up at him. But he remains unfazed. Your siblings have their brows raised. But by then, they’ve already drifted off and Taehyung wordlessly rows away. You don’t have time to react or object — not when Yoongi’s grabbed your hand and you stumble after him. The last rowboat rocks back and forth violently and you drop into a seated position on the seat before you can fall in. It takes three seconds. The rope is untied and Yoongi rows away from the pier. You notice his fiancée meters away in her own boat, sitting closely with girls chatting and giggling together. Yet, she pays no mind to her friends. Instead, she stares at the two of you. “Shouldn’t you be with her?” Yoongi follows your line of sight and mumbles, “It’s fine.” You’re stuck with him. Yoongi rows where no one else does and you watch the water cascade back. The soft sloshing fills the background as it gets quiet and much too uncomfortable. Yoongi’s husky timbre breaks the tension. “How have you been?” “Well, I’ve just been trapped in my house ever since I’ve returned, but things are great.” Your voice drips of venomous sarcasm, but when you lift your eyes, his gaze locks into yours. The blonde man wears a somber expression, his irises darkening and you sigh, speaking at a quieter volume. “I actually worked out a deal with my parents. As long as I behave and don’t tarnish my family name, I can do as I please. There’s more freedom than before. But it’s a work in progress full of compromise. If I want to leave, I’ll have to write a plan so they know where I’m headed. I just haven’t decided what I want to do next.” Your muttering gets quiet and your face hardens. “Obviously, you’re doing well.” Yoongi stops rowing. He allows the boat to drift. “The engagement was set up by my mother.” “Oh please, Yoongi.” Your eyes roll and you cross your arms, ready for his excuses that you knew were coming. “It was arranged. For all I know, I haven’t proposed to anyone yet.” “That doesn’t change that fact that you’re an engaged man!” Your teeth grit. “It doesn’t change the fact that you’re going to go off with her and have a bunch of kids and a big family together, so congratu-fucking-lations.” It’s unbearable. There’s nowhere you can run. He’s truly trapped you here to confront one another. “And when were you planning to tell me? All those letters and you didn’t mention it once!” Your eyes sting painfully as your vision floods, overwhelmed with emotion. You feel blindsighted. “I thought I wouldn’t have to tell you at all. I was going to take care of it. I didn’t know you were going to be here.” “You really think it’s easy to call off an engagement with the Duke’s daughter?!” you spit and he takes your onslaught of anger. The pain is visible on your visage. “If I didn’t come, were you going to tell me when you got to the altar? Or after you got back from the honeymoon? I...I feel like an idiot.” “I’m sorry.” Staggering exhales pull from your lungs after your tangent and silence fills the large distance between the pair of you. Yet, Yoongi’s gaze is too tender for you to bear. “My biggest regret is not kissing you that night,” he murmurs. “Or rather, not asking you to come with me.” “It’s too late.” “It isn’t.” “What are you going to do, Yoongi?” “I’m going to call it off.” “How?” “I’ll try.” His voice is low, eyes half-lidded. “Then what?” you spit in exasperation. “What reason would you have to call it off? It’s a great arrangement! A beneficial marri—” “I want to marry you.” The inside of your chest stutters. Your breath catches in your throat. Warmth rises to your face and heats your cheeks like a furnace. Yoongi isn’t a straightforward man, blunt but never honest with his feelings. That trait has bred so many uncertainties within you. But in this moment, you feel his sincerity. You can see it, how hard he’s tried to reach you, to tell you his intentions. It reminds you of that night in Rutherglen. The festival and fireworks, when you were so close to one another, when you would’ve gone anywhere with him. “You’re an idiot, Min Yoongi.” You stand. “I don’t feel like talking to idiots.” You pull your orb from your pocket and cast shape water. The waves rise and it splashes him. Yoongi’s yellow hair is soaked along with the entire side of his head. His visage washes over into impassivity, akin to a glare. But you don’t dwell, palms laying flat in the air as you manipulate the water and push the boat back to shore. The minute you get to the pier, you pull yourself up. “I learnt more spells other than fire magic since our fight with the Remorhaz,” you add, “if you even remember that.” You know it’s unfair, but you rush away before he can discern how in a few words, he’s given you hope. The very hope that you know can easily break your heart again. // It’s been less than two full days, but it feels like an eternity. You’re slouched over an open arched window, elbow propped on the stone with your chin rested in your hand. The valleys of Pegan are out in the distance behind the fogged clouds, countless adventures and creatures out there for you to discover and explore. But you find yourself rooted in your place, a sense of uneasiness and yearning preventing you from leaving. At sounds of quacking, your eyes drift from the scenery to the first floor. By the staircase is a white duck with an orange beak trotting along with a row of pale yellow, baby ducklings behind her. They follow their mother religiously, teetering from side to side, trying not to get too curious of the world around them and a smile graces your lips. “Are ducklings your favourite animal, sorcerer?” Your spine straightens in shock and the wandering ghost, Leo, grins at you. Your hand presses to your chest as you steady your breath. “Are you trying to scare me to death?!” “Of course not! That would be defeating the purpose. I can’t borrow your body if you’re dead like I am,” he chortles, arms behind his back as he floats from your right side to your left. “I wanted to merely apologize for this morning. I didn’t mean to be so invasive or startle you.” You glare at him, not yet accepting his apology. He continues nonetheless— “Also, I want you to help me.” You snort unattractively, having known he had other purposes in approaching you again. “Unless you agree to my deal, the answer is no.” “Please,” Leo pleads. “I can’t move on.” You push yourself off the wall and walk away. He follows after you, even after you quicken your steps. “Why can’t you possess someone else’s body and watch your stupid sunrise?” “That is not my greatest desire.” The ghost comes in front of you and you halt in fear of him entering your body. “I’m afraid I haven’t been entirely truthful to you, dear sorcerer.” Your brow lifts, waiting patiently and Leo swallows hard. “I await another lost soul and I wish to depart this world together with them. I can’t move on without them.” Your frustration makes your voice shrill. “It’s not only you who has problems, alright? I can’t even fix mine! What makes me think I can fix yours?!” As your annoyance boils over, you start running. It’s useless to try to elude a ghost who can’t get tired, but you try anyway. “Sorcerer!” And without looking, you turn the corner and collide with another body. “Woah!” Jin steadies you before the two of you can topple over. “Why are you not looking at where you’re going?” Lia is with him and regards you with wide eyes. “Are you okay?” You glance over your shoulder. The ghost never comes. “It’s nothing,” you mutter in a sigh. “Mom’s looking for you again.” “What is it this time?” The words come out in a tired exhale. Your older brother shrugs. “Might have to do with tonight’s dinner.” “Hey, Y/N.” Suddenly, Lia takes your hands. “Tell me honestly, do you like Jinha?” “No.” You warily eye her, not sure where she’s going with this. The corner of Jin’s mouth curls. “Why? You like him?” “Well, if she doesn’t like him, she should give him to me,” Lia mumbles, then quickly turns to you. “Of course, if you do, then by all means, our sisterhood is my top priority….” You pull your hand away from her. “I don’t like him, Lia. But he’s not mine to give away either. You can do whatever you want.” Your sister’s eyes twinkle with a kind of enthusiasm that makes you scoff with a smile. Jin’s mouth is quirked as well, but his curiosity has been piqued and he doesn’t hesitate to ask— “It’s because of him, isn’t it? He’s the reason you’re not interested. The youngest son of the Min faction. What was his name?” “Yoongi.” If possible, Lia’s features light up further and she steps forward, cornering you. “What happened on that boat ride, Y/N? It seemed like you were having a really intense talk.” “It was nothing,” you murmur. “He practically pulled you into the boat with him. I mean, did his fiancée mind?” In the midst of the interrogation, Jin shifts to you, eyes unwavering. “You started sending him letters the minute you got back, but now he’s engaged and he happens to pull you aside like that— What really happened on your adventure together?” Millpass, Bogsburrough, Rutherglen. The memories seep back into you. The fireworks and festival, the night at the roadside tavern, fighting together at the underground market. The way he rushed in front of you in the face of the white dragon, how the two of you sat on the hill and watched the sunset together. It’s overwhelming. “Who is he to you?” “I said nothing!” you lie and push past them, stomping in the other direction to get away from your overbearing siblings. “Hey!” Lia shouts after you. “Mom’s still calling you!” You ignore them, turning the corner then down the staircase lest the wandering ghost plagues you again or you run into Taehyung, your mother or father. For good measure, you depart outside without any direction but merely feeling the soft grass underneath your boots. You’re about to turn yourself invisible for a moment of peace or disguise yourself as a maid to escape, but with your unfortunate luck that’s been bestowed to you since you arrived, you run into dimples before you get the chance. A petite figure with spiral curls and an evening dress of modesty. Her brown eyes sparkle as your eyes lock with one another’s. With half a mind and all the etiquette training that had been slammed into you at childhood, you curtsy. “Hello.” “Good evening.” Klarinda smiles at you without a trace of malice. “What a coincidence meeting you here. I was about to head to my greenhouse.” “Yes.” You stiffly nod. “If you’ll excuse me…” But before you can march off, she twirls around. “Would you like to join me?” It’s an open space. The gardens seem to stretch on for miles, plant walls that border the perimeter. In the center of it all is a structure made of glass. The ceilings are high to let in sunlight and there are rows and benches of potted plants and flowers. “Some of these I grow simply because they’re beautiful. But a lot of these herbs have medicinal purposes.” “You’re a cleric, aren’t you, my lady?” “I am, like my mother. And you don’t have to address me by such formal titles. A friend of Yoongi’s is a friend of mine.” The girl smiles. “Klarinda is fine.” You nod and she quietly hums a song as she waters flowers. You follow after her until a particular plant catches your eye — verdant leafs, yellow petals and plump berries. “It’s a sunberry plant,” Klarinda says when she notices your curiosity. “Would you like to try one?” The Duke’s daughter happily plucks one off and holds it out in front of you. The second your teeth bites down, the sweetness explodes into your cheek. She giggles at your reaction. “Good, right? My dad likes to come in here and eat them when they’re in season, so they’re always gone.” “Good enough to sell. You should cast a protection or barrier spell on them.” “I should.” She grins, dimples dotted on both sides of her face. “But between you and me, I actually don't mind so much. It makes me happy that he enjoys something from my garden, even if he has to sneak in.” Most of your first impressions aren’t wrong. Within minutes of conversation, you can figure out if a customer is going to chase you down and try to fight you or might come back at a latter time to buy more. And you can tell her innocence isn’t a feigned facade. The Marquise is endearing enough that you like her for it. For a moment, you almost feel envious of Yoongi. But they’re undoubtedly a good match. A stoic, strong knight capable of shielding away a virtuous maiden who knows nothing of the world, but is kind and generous to a fault. It’s a portrait perfect couple. “This place is really beautiful.” You force yourself away from the thoughts that form a lump in your throat. “Thank you. It can get lonely though.” You hum, supposing a vast yet empty estate would do that to someone. “Don’t people from Pegan visit often?” “They do. They mostly arrive for business. I used to play with all kinds of children from the different factions, especially during holidays. But they can be……” “A bit much?” Klarinda laughs. “Yes! Some might say crazy or competitive, but much is a good word too.” You grin. “I’ve barely gotten to know how the factions work, but I can already tell. Some of them are so conceited.” Her eyes sparkle. “Like Jinha?” “Yes!” She giggles, her dimples creased deeper and her teeth shown in the light. Like this, she’s less of a proper and demure lady, niece to the king, and more like a girl you would’ve known on your travels. “He can be quite a gentleman, but he has an arrogant nature.” “My sister likes him, but I’m not sure why. Personally, I think she could do better. Then again, they wouldn't be bad together.” With the divine sorcerer’s willing-to-please nature and Lia’s incessant demands and high maintenance personality, it might work out better than intended. “I’m envious that you have so many siblings,” Klarinda says with a tender smile and you’re caught in surprise. You didn’t know it was possible she could be envious of you when you were envious of her in so many ways. “I’m an only child, so I’ve often wondered what it would’ve been like to have an older brother or younger sister. There’s nothing that beats family after all.” “You’re not missing out on much, trust me. Siblings can be quite annoying.” She laughs again. “Still, I think it would’ve been nice to belong to a bigger family.” A comfortable silence simmers as you follow after her and she moves to prune a plant. You break the quiet. “Actually, I was away from my family for quite a while. For a number of years.” “I thought you went adventuring for one year?” You shake your head. “They told everyone I went to go study arcane magic, but it isn’t true. I ran away and was gone for three.” Klarinda looks at you with a gentle expression, recognizing your solemnity. “What matters is that you’re here with them now.” You nod. “I don’t regret coming home. I’m glad I didn’t have to return when there was a funeral of my parents.” “Even if they’re overbearing?” she asks with a tiny smile. “Even if they’re overbearing,” you confirm. “You met Yoongi during your travels, right?” Immediately, you freeze, but she focuses on her plant, only stealing a simple glance at you. “He told me a lot about you from day one.” “Is that so?” “The engagement was a surprise to the both of us,” she murmurs, placing her shears down. “It happened less than a month ago. Suddenly my mother sat me down and told me about the arrangement. It was strange considering she had never spoken to me about it before and she’s never been one to make such an agreement. Anyway, a few minutes after I met Yoongi, he spoke about you. Rather fondly.” “Really?” You plaster on a polite smile. “Well, I’m flattered. He’s a great friend.” “Is he sincerely a friend to you?” Klarinda asks. Her gaze is piercing and you raise your guard. She’s going to threaten you — you know it. But you weren’t the one who made the decision and you don’t want any part of it. It doesn’t involve you. It never will. Having learnt from the best, your face becomes blank. “I am very happy that he’s finally engaged. He’s always been very popular, so settling down just seems right for him.” At once, the cleric grips her necklace. Against your will, she casts an enchantment spell and a fifteen foot radius sphere sweeps out from her. It keeps you inside. A zone of truth that prevents lies. “I’m sorry. But I need to know.” She looks at you solemnly. “Do you like Yoongi?” You cuss in Elvish underneath your breath. You can’t be deceptive, but you can still be evasive in your responses as long as it remains within the boundaries of the truth. “It’s not like I dislike him.” “Please be honest with me.” She searches your expression earnestly, pleading with you. Being with Yoongi has made you soft. You’re used to protecting your vulnerabilities until the end, but the truth spills from you as if it’s been dying to be said— “I’m in love with him.” The spell dissipates. Klarinda smiles. “Then I’ll call off the engagement.” “What?” “They can’t force me to do anything and I’d rather keep two great friends than having an unwilling husband for the rest of my life.” Her dimples crease. “I wouldn’t want that for him, myself or you.” “Wait! J-Just because I feel a certain way doesn’t mean he does or even that the engagement should be called off! This...this is something you should talk about with him, not me.” Her smile becomes sweeter. “Isn’t it obvious?” You blink at her. “Yoongi loves you too. What’s more that needs to be said?” The girl is so certain as if the answer has never been clearer. She’s a hopeless romantic. Utterly so. Someone who believes that love prevails above all and suddenly, you want to give into that urge as well. But before either of you can move, there’s a rumble beneath your feet. The ground itself tilts. Klarinda catches herself on the bench and you find your own balance. The pair of you tear your eyes away from one another to the roaring noise. The castle is shaking in its foundation. She notices the smoke that’s rising in the air. “Is...that fire?” Your eyes widen and you rush over, instincts screaming. The girl trails behind you and you pull yourself inside. There’s fire eating at the walls and you take your orb out, focusing your magic to snuff out the flames. To the best of your abilities, you extinguish it. Klarinda stays with you, using her own magic to try to aid you. “Sorcerer!” In the midst of the pandemonium, a familiar voice and form comes from the walls. Leo, the ghost, floats to your side. “I need your help. You must come with me. Please!” Klarinda’s eyes widen. But you don’t notice. “Don’t you see what’s going on?! I can’t help you!” The ghost vanishes. There is smoke filling the halls, flooding the corridors and you cover your mouth with the sleeve of your dress, coughing into it. Members from different factions are rushing past with their own weapons and shields, swords gripped or magic at their fingertips. There’s shouting above the chaos, but you don’t know what’s going on. Not until you enter the main room and find your mother and Taehyung. “Mom!” There’s a dracolich in the center of the circular room, towering high enough to graze the dome ceiling. It’s a monster — once a dragon until it became undead. Now what’s left of it is bones instead of flesh and blood, open eye sockets and decayed wings. But instead of being buried underneath the ground or burnt to ash, it’s come back to life, roaring and whipping its tail to a group of terrified, screaming wizards. There are several death knights as well. Decayed bodies with rotting flesh and pinpoints of light in place of eyes. They’re undead warriors who have revived, having once been rangers and barbarians until they fell. And one of them lunges at Taehyung until your mother casts finger of death, causing it searing pain and making it drop to its knees. Three rays of fire shoot past her, firing onto the death knight. She turns her head. “Y/N!” “Where’s Jin and Lia?” “They went to go find your father. He’s with the Duke!” Another death knight comes running forward with an axe and Taehyung screams before splashing a bubble of acid on it. A beat later, your mother’s grasp on her wand tightens and she sends a frigid beam of blue-white light streak on the monster. A coldness sweeps through the room and you follow up with casting firebolt. The monster has slowed down, barely staggering and obviously wounded. Yet, it tries to swing and misses Taehyung by a long shot. “Not bad,” you comment. “Hey, I’ve improved a lot since the last time you saw me fight!” A rectangular grin is plastered on Taehyung’s face. But the conversation is cut short by the dragonlich’s tail. He jumps away before he’s attacked and joins the other side where a paladin is fighting another monster. “Go!” Your mother shouts. “It’s too dangerous!” “I’m not leaving!” You don’t know where these undead creatures came from, how they even came alive again, or who revived them. There’s no time to think and in the midst of the anarchy, you’re trapped. Sheer seconds as you realize you’re about to be struck, but you’re unable to do anything. You merely brace for the impact. But the monster drops dead in front of you. Yoongi pulls his rapier out in one smooth tug, the silver blade slicing through the air. You gasp for air and he immediately engulfs you in an embrace. The man with the light blonde strands of hair holds you tight as your breath steadies and you savour his warmth. There are no words spoken, nothing that needs to be said that can’t be translated through his desperate yet affectionate gesture. “Sorcerer.” The moment can’t last long when you’re interrupted by the ghost. It floats to you and Yoongi is on guard, lifting the tip of his weapon. But you place a hand on his arm and he eases. “Listen to me.” You’re calm enough to finally pay attention, to hopefully be given answers. And answers are what he offers you. “There is a lich where the old castle resides. You must find the phylactery and destroy it before things become worse.” “A lich?!” Liches are among the worst creatures of humanity — undead spellcasters of great power. They’re creatures who traded in their souls for a chance to exist forever. There are untold treachery and blasphemies they’ve done just to become what they are. But they’re given immortality unless someone destroys their phylactery, an object that stores their life essences. Before you can ask any more questions, the ghost dissipates in thin air. Klarinda, who noticed the transparent form, runs to you. She grabs your hands and searches your expression. “What did the ghost say?!” “T-There’s a lich in the old castle!” “I know where that is!” The Dragonlich roars deafeningly as a warlock casts hold monster and it becomes paralyzed. At the same time, Yoongi pierces a death knight that was barreling towards you. You turn to your mother who gives a glance and she doesn’t even take a moment of hesitation. “Go!” She trusts your decisions — her gaze tells you that. Klarinda nods and Yoongi takes your hand. The two of you follow after her as she twists through the halls. “How did you come in contact with that ghost, Y/N?” “I don’t know. He was the one who approached me after the tournament and he’s been bothering me since yesterday.” Klarinda turns down the hall. “Do you know who that ghost is?” “He told me his name is Leo.” “He’s King Lionel,” she says and your brows raise. Yoongi doesn’t appear surprised either. He wears a solemn expression, having recognized him as well. “There was a section of his life in my history textbook of Pegan. This place used to be his castle.” You’re baffled, completely rendered speechless. She continues, “There was a rebellion a thousand years ago. This whole place burnt down, but it was rebuilt during my grandfather’s generation.” “Were there ever mentions of a lich? Or someone who traded their soul?” Yoongi shakes his head. “No.” “He never had a wife. But there were rumours that he had a mistress. A wizard from far away lands.” Your eyes meet Klarinda’s. “His kingdom was taken down before they could get married.” “But why now?” You’re running out of breath as she climbs a staircase. “If this...mistress traded in her soul a thousand years ago, why is she trying to revive dragons and knights now?” “It isn’t just now,” Klarinda murmurs, her brows drawn into a tight furrow and jaw clenched. “Members of the royal family in Pegan have gone missing for generations. They’ve always swept it under the carpet and kept it a secret, but I think I’m about to find out the reason.” The three of you turn another corner, but come to a grinding halt when you see a flailing lady. “Mother!” Duchess Jacquelyn is in the middle of the corridor, wearing a bountiful and extravagant gown while her arms are full of jewelry boxes, dangling strings of pearls and diamonds. One string slips from the pile and rolls on the cobblestone to your friend’s feet. “D-Darling! What a surprise! What’s going on? The noise has been startling me!” Klarinda steps forward. “What are you doing?” “T-This?! Nothing! I was just re-organizing! Yes. Reorganizing.” “That’s grandmother’s ring.” She points, eyes narrowed in. “You’ve never brought it out since her funeral.” “Well...sometimes change is needed, sweetheart.” They stare at one another while you exchange looks with Yoongi. There is a pregnant silence, tangible tension that’s suffocating. Then you notice how Duchess Jacquelyn slips her hand to her side and something glistens in your eyes, blinding your vision. Your mouth draws open. “You’re not my mother!” — “Watch out!” The dagger strikes her. Klarinda cries as the back of her right hand is sliced. Yet she grabs the opportunity and grips her necklace, her spellcasting object. The girl’s left hand comes out and she holds her mother’s double by the wrist, casting inflict wound. The creature screams horrifically in sheer agony. “What did you do to her?! Where is she?!” You grip your orb, casting scorching ray. One beam of fire hits it and it screeches. A moment later, Yoongi lifts his rapier and strikes it twice, causing the monster to stumble onto its back. Its weapon clacks out of reach. Klarinda grabs the dagger and holds the creature to the floor. She presses the blade to its throat. All traces of her kindness and mercy have dissipated in the face of her rage. “Where is she?!” “O-Okay! Okay! I surrender!” It puts up its hands and shifts. The form of the creature is no longer the beautiful, middle-aged Duchess but a tall, elven gray-skinned humanoid. Its face is formless and eyes are pale and bulging. Its voice croaks, “I’m a doppelganger! I didn’t have a choice! The lich made me do it!” “My mother!” Klarinda shrieks and you lower yourself, squeezing her shoulder and she eases. Tears have filled her eyes, but when she glances at you, she’s able to compose herself. “She’s dead. Her soul’s been consumed.” Klarinda breaks down into sobs. You wrap an arm around her and she lets up on the doppelganger, but Yoongi makes sure to keep his foot down on its shoulder. “We have to get it.” She wipes at her tears, teeth sinking into her bottom lip. “We have to kill that lich, Y/N!” “We will,” you promise her. “We will.” Seconds later, you see Jinha come forward and he rushes over trying to get a grasp of the situation. “Can you take care of this?” you ask and he easily agrees. “O-Of course, lady Y/N.” He binds up the doppelganger and Klarinda casts cure wounds on herself, healing her gash. She takes your hand afterwards and you hold it. Yet, even as her frame shakes, there’s determination in her steps. A type of anger that has solidified her resolve and given her courage. “This is the passageway.” She pushes open a small stone door to reveal a crawl space after Yoongi helped push a bookshelf to the side in the corner of the library. “I found it as a kid, but I never went in too far. The servants found me and they tried to cover it up.” The three of you crawl through before it opens up and Yoongi helps you down onto the landing. There is consuming darkness until Klarinda casts light onto the dagger she has and you ignite a flame to dance into your hand. The empty void is collected with cobwebs, spiders and eyes of bats staring back at you, quietly observing your forms. Each of your steps echo and a cloud of dust emerges. You move slowly, scared that the steps of the staircase winding downwards will collapse under your weight. But you’re able to look around, at the crumbling paintings, the fragmented pillar pieces, the stone walls with scorched markings, and the ancient statues long lost and eaten by time itself. Never would you have guessed that the basement of the castle held all of this. That they had rebuilt themselves on top of what was once the castle of the entire kingdom of Pegan. You can imagine what this would’ve been like a thousand years ago. Children running with servants scolding them, advisors walking by King Lionel’s side, his lover waiting for him. Then you envision the screams, the devouring fire. You can see the charred marks along the banister. You can almost hear it, but you quickly shake it off before you can become frightened. “Destroying the phylactery is the only way we can get rid of the lich without it coming back, but how will we know where it is or what it is?” It could be any object in any room. You turn with the flickering fire in your palm, looking all around you. It’s endless. “If that monster is down here, there has to be a reason,” Yoongi offers, standing by your side. “It could’ve moved anywhere but it might be protecting its phylactery.” “I know where it is.” There’s a low voice and a familiar ghost descends in front of you with a saddened smile. “Your highness.” Klarinda bows her head. But you remain still, even after knowing his identity. King Lionel looks at you with his brows knitted together. “I am sorry for deceiving you, dear sorcerer. Or rather, holding the truth from you. I feared you would have denied my request had I been forthright about it. In hindsight, I could’ve prevented the devastation that has wrecked this place. Had I only known….” “Do you know where the lich is? Or where the phylactery is?” “It is in the last place where I perished.” The King smiles. “In our chambers.” He turns, floating away and Klarinda follows. You and Yoongi trail behind her and when you feel the back of his hand grazing against yours, you grasp it. Yoongi looks at you and you release your held sigh. “Why is it that we always find ourselves in adventures like these?” “You mean these life or death scenarios?” The corner of his mouth curls and he squeezes your hand. “We always manage. But you should’ve told me that you were talking to a ghost.” “I don’t think we were on speaking terms until recently, duckling.” Yoongi grins at the nostalgic nickname, the one you used to start each letter, and your own smile is tinged with sadness. You don’t know if either of you will live. If the pair of you have it in you to be an actual hero and defeat the greatest monster. And as these doubts fill you, so do the regrets that you harbour for not hearing him out, for not trusting in him. With such little time, you wonder if this is it. If this will be your last opportunity. Your steps slow. “Yoongi. I—” “How dare you enter my lair?!” There’s a snarling voice resounding above and instantly, the ghost of King Lionel vanishes. Klarinda turns behind her and looks at you and Yoongi. The hall has ended with a crumbling stone door in front of her. “Leave!” The voice shrieks deafeningly into multiple layers. “Leave!” You nod at her and she pushes the door open. The dust billows out, sweeping in front of your forms. The fire in your hand smothers and the strong gust of wind pulls through your hair. You can’t open your eyes, so you shield yourself away. Yoongi feels his grasp on you loosen. Your touch fades away from him. He shouts after you until his throat is raw, but it’s to no avail. He scrambles blindly until he’s able to open his eyes and finds himself in an empty void of darkness. “I know your greatest fear.” There’s a whisper in his ear and he jolts, turning around while drawing his rapier. But there’s nothing there, not even a shapeless figure. “Min Yoongi. I have read your thoughts.” “I have read your mind,” a second voice crackles to his left. The right snicker. “Your greatest fear is betrayal of your loved one.” “Whether that would be no longer sharing your affections.” “Or choosing another person to be with.” “Get out of my head,” he commands from deep within his stomach, his impassivity ruined by the furrow of his brows. But Yoongi feels a cold breath on the nape of his neck. “A lick of poison from her would destroy you for good.” Fire. You see it in front of you as you’re collapsed on the floor. The orange and rose glow are illuminated on your face. You’re sitting so close it seems to lick at your cheeks. Yet you’re brought into a lull as you listen to the crackle and pop, as you allow the smoke to fill your senses. You’re brought in a trance as you watch the fire burn a house down, a quaint home with a picket white fence and large windows with pink curtains. “Your greatest strength is your greatest fear.” There’s a murmur in your ear. It’s unrecognizable. “I know,” you mumble. “You are afraid of one day no longer being able to control the flames that seethes to be unleashed.” “But repress it no longer, dear,” the left voice seductively whispers, hissing softly. “Worry no longer.” “Your magic is incredible and oozes from you.” — “Give into it.” — “Allow it freedom.” “What….about...Yoongi?” you ask, tearing your eyes away from the fire into the darkness. You stand back on your feet, finding balance again. “No.” There’s a sharp inhale to your right. “Leave him.” You scoff automatically, the idea so utterly ridiculous that it’s unfathomable. “I’m not going to do that. I finally found someone that doesn’t find me annoying….” “You could be powerful.” The more it talks, the more you’re coming to your senses. “I already am powerful!” You twist around, dispelling away the hallucination of the burning house with the flicker of your hand. “And I already know how to control my powers! You think I’m some kind of amateur sorcerer?! It doesn’t control me. I control it!” Again, you ignite a fire in your hand and narrow your eyes. In the distance, you catch strands of pale yellow. And you run after him. The voices scream for you to stop, but you fight against the magic that threatens to pull you back. The moment you smother out the flame, you leap at Yoongi. Your arms are thrown around him in an embrace and immediately, his hands wrap around you. Yoongi stumbles back with an infectious smile expanding into his cheeks. The spell dissipates and you find yourself back in the underground remains of the ancient castle. “Don’t let go of my hand again, brat.” “I’m sorry,” you mumble against his neck. Suddenly, there’s a piercing scream that ricochets through the air — one belonging to only Klarinda. You pull away from Yoongi, eyes locked into one another and he sets you down. Your fingers interlace and you follow the sound, turning down the hall once more and entering through the large double-doors to the decaying chambers. A frame of a bed sits in the wide expanse of the room, grayed cloth ripped and drifting over the canopy. Ash and soot sits in a layer on the floorboards, the wardrobe and vanity along the back wall destroyed. There’s a large painting on the wall, but the faces of the couple have been torn and scratched by bleeding fingernails. Your eyes sweep the room within seconds before landing on Klarinda who’s been blighted. She’s fallen over and you come to cover her with your body as you look upon the lich. It’s angular and skeletal with withering flesh stretched tightly across visible bones, dressed in regal finery, reddened drapes that once was vibrant. Yoongi’s knuckles turn white at his grip and he runs towards the creature. He misses, but hits on his second try, slashing it across. He surges forward, yet it does little to the lich that still stands. “Foolish children,” she hisses and grips the blade of Yoongi’s rapier, rendering him immobile. “You aren’t heroes. Your recklessness will bring forth your death. I will not spare you from the choices you have made.” You cast immolation and flames wreathe the lich. She lets go of Yoongi’s weapon and the light of your magic is so bright that you’re forced to look away. At the same time, Klarinda cures her wounds and slowly comes to her feet again. “Do you really think you could defeat me?!” The lich’s snarling voice booms across the room. Pinpoints of crimson light burn in the empty sockets of where her eyes were before they rotted away. She glides forward as if floating on water and a sphere of poisonous gas billows to all corners of the room. “Yoongi!” You cover your mouth with your hand and the yellow-green fog obscures your view. You hear the clanking of metal where he hits the lich and you feel your vision blurring from the poison. But as you narrow your eyes, you’re able to make out the faint shadow of the lich’s form. And a thin green ray springs from your pointing finger in the spell disintegrate, allowing you to hear it’s deafening shriek. You give permission for your phoenix magic to unleash and you’re magically twined in swirling fire, eyes glowing as hot coals. Your flesh sheds bright light into the fog. Behind you, Klarinda murmurs words of restoration and you feel yourself being healed from the poison. The lich is toying with you. You know it. The moment you stepped into here, it could’ve immediately killed any of you with a single word, but instead, it chose to manifest those hallucinations and slowly suffocate the three of you in this poison. The lich glides towards you, but is stopped by Yoongi. Before you can pull him out of the way, she lifts her finger, and he drops to his knees. He screams from the sheer agony that courses up his body. “Yoongi!” The lich casts detect thoughts on him, probing his brain, tearing apart bits and pieces of it. It hums and muses, “How selfless yet foolish. Even in this much pain, you are still thinking about how much you love her.” Yoongi grits his teeth, bumbling upwards to his feet and strikes the monster thrice. The force is enough that she staggers back and tense silence fills the air. You steal the opportunity and come forward next to Yoongi. Your palms press towards the monster to cast fireball, but the roar of the flames never comes. The lich has counterspelled it. Klarinda cries and runs forward with her dagger. “You killed my mother!” “And her soul was delicious to consume,” she snarls and grabs her blade, tossing it aside as if it were a toy. “Yours will be too!” Klarinda sobs as something catches the corner eye. But there’s no chance — not when the lich takes your spell of choice and magic blooms out of her thin fingertips. Fire blossoms from her flesh, thundering out in the force of her rage. You immediately turn to hug Yoongi, arms embracing his body to protect him. But when his hands reach to the back of your neck and he presses your face to his shoulder, you’re not sure who’s protecting who. Yet, the fire never reaches you. Even when it rumbles through the room and the ruins of the ancient castle. Even when the walls begin to crack further and fragments of the ceiling dust down. Even when scorching flames has filled every corner of the space. You raise your head, finding that the ghost of King Lionel is facing the lich. One of his last fragments of magic has been channeled into an aura of life spell, shielding the three of you away. “Enough, Karlis,” he calls out to her softly. “You have done enough harm.” “I thought I banished you!” she snarls out, crouched over as the pinpoints of red lights of her eyes glare at him. “I won’t leave without you.” “Why?!” The voice is jarring to your ears. “The girl you knew is long gone!” Neither of them notice Klarinda who staggers upwards towards the vanity in the corner, struggling to grab her dagger along the way. “Even so, I won’t leave her behind again. I won’t leave you behind. So come with me, Karlis. Leave your anger behind and come with me.” His arm outstretched but the monster cackles horrifically. “Foolish, man! I will not stop until I have destroyed the bloodline that ruined us.” “No one ruined us. It was I who ruled poorly, and you who chose to give up your soul and walk down this path by your lonesome in the wake of your grief. Karlis.” “Never!” she screeches and a gust of wind pushes him away. Then the lich screeches in torment. Klarinda digs the dagger’s blade into the heart shaped necklace on the vanity — the phylactery that holds the life force of the lich. She plunges the weapon several times until her arm strains, until the dagger’s curved against the vanity’s surface, until it slips from her trembling hand and she tosses it aside in the midst of tears. The lich’s bones collide against the floor. Her screams are audible around the room and the red clothing flutters in the air as it drops. You look away with Yoongi, but King Lionel gazes at her until the last moment. Gone. After centuries of terrorizing Pegan’s royal family, just like that. // The sunbeams pierce the sky in pastel shades, painting the clouds in watercolour hues. It breaks away the darkness of the night and the stars of the horizon. Klarinda is silent as she looks onward from the open arched window with her arms behind her back. But you know it’s not her. She’s been possessed by King Lionel, having granted his wish and allowed him to borrow her body. “My last duties as a King have been complete,” he murmurs in her voice. “My business is finished now that I know she hasn’t been left behind.” He turns to you and Yoongi with a dimpled smile. “Thank you. Sorcerer. Knight. Without your help, I wouldn’t have been able to free her from her own treachery.” “It’s not like you gave us much of a choice,” you mumble half-heartedly and he chuckles. “I guess I didn’t. I’m also sorry I’m not able to give you gold or any semblance of a reward when you have bestowed to me such a great favour.” “Having our lives is enough,” Yoongi says, bowing his head and you scoff lightly. The ghosts’ eyes twinkle as he looks at him and then to you. “You really do remind me of her,” he says. “But more strong-willed and self-assured. Something she had greatly missed and led her to her demise.” A sigh releases from him. “The world is blessed to have such great heroes.” The pair of you exchange expressions. “I’m not so sure about that….” You still don’t feel like heroes — he was the one who protected you and Klarinda was the one who destroyed the phylactery. Both you and Yoongi barely did anything other than waltz in there without a plan. In retrospect, that was probably a bad idea but there wasn’t really enough time to figure out battle tactics. Or at least that’s the excuse you’re going to hang onto. The ghost gives an all-knowing smile and turns to the horizon. “My time is here. Thank you for your help, heroes.” Within three seconds, he dissipated from her. Klarinda stumbles and is steadied by Yoongi. She smiles, thanking him before gazing at the pair of you. Two dimples are marked in each corner of her cheeks.

The chaos has come and gone. The moment the lich’s life source was destroyed, the monsters no longer swarmed and spawned on the grounds. The place is no longer haunted either. It’s finally what it looks like — simply, a castle. You came here to find the truth and to confront Yoongi — you never expected to encounter a ghost and a lich. It’s a wonder how it’s possible trouble can find you in so many ways no matter where you go. “Aren’t you cold?” A husky voice pipes up behind you and you’re brought out of your trance. Pale yellow hair joins your side, reminding you of ducklings. It’s still dawn, but you’re at the bottom steps of the garden's gazebo instead of seeking refuge on a soft bed. It was the only way you could get some peace and quiet from your siblings. “I’m never cold.” You turn to him, a fire flickering in your palm. Yoongi tenderly smiles. “How did speaking to Duke Fesan go?” “He’s bedridden, but he’ll make it. He wasn't too badly injured. But he’s grieving with his daughter.” You nod. “And your mother and father?” “They’re fine. A little shocked, but they’re using the opportunity to boast about me. A lot.” A laugh bubbles out of you. “Well, it’s not like they have no reason to. You’re amazing, Yoongi,” you breathe it out with a second thought, as if it were factual and you don’t notice his gaze on you. “How about your own family?” “They’re fine. My sister’s well enough to flirt with Jinha and my brothers are bickering loud enough to give my mom a headache,” you say and he hums. “But we’re leaving in a few hours. They already called the carriage for the afternoon.” “You’re heading back home?” You nod wordlessly. The tension is suffocating. You decide to break it, turning to him while masking a smile. “How was breaking the...other news to the Duke?” “Easier than one would expect. Klarinda asked to call off the wedding and the Duke said it was the doppelganger’s arrangement anyway. It was trying to amass as much wealth for itself as it could.” “That’s good.” “It is.” “Get that sorted and out of the way.” You steal a glance at Yoongi pathetically to find he has an impassive expression and is blankly looking onward. After a moment, he yawns tiredly and then his eyes flicker to you. Instantly, you divert your vision elsewhere, not noticing his smile. “You know,” he says, “the Duke thought it would be unfair to me. Even though it’s going to be called off, everyone already knows about the arrangement. It might be an opportunity for gossip to be made towards the Min faction.” “And what did you say?” “I said that I already had someone else in mind from the start.” Your eyes meet. Pools of deep brown locked into yours. Strands of his blonde hair nearly pricking into his lashes. And it’s an intimate moment as your voice quiets. “Did you really mean what you said on that boat ride. About regretting not asking me to come with you?” The man exhales, “Every day.” “A wedding with me would be awful,” you murmur, barely coherent. You feel how warmth rises to your face and heats your cheeks like a furnace, and for once, it’s not because of the magical fire inside your blood. “My mom would have to have a whole show and if you thought having three siblings was a lot, wait until you meet my cousins and extended family. They multiplied like damn rabbits.” Yoongi tries to put on a stoic face but fails. His grin is all too gummy. “I don’t mind. You haven’t met my brother yet, but he’s just as overbearing. And if anything, my mother would be ecstatic. She loves noble titles, so she’d hit it off with your mother.” “I still want that great big house.” “I would like one too.” “If you haven’t noticed, I really like my food burnt to a crisp like a fiend.” “I don’t mind.” He shrugs. “I always liked my meat especially cooked anyways.” “I’m a con artis—” “No matter what you say, I won’t change my mind, Y/N.” Yoongi’s brow cocks, challenging you straight on, albeit more gingerly than you’ve ever witnessed. “Your persuasions won’t work.” “Yoongi…” “You still owe me that refund.” What? He grins mischievously and you roll your eyes, having no idea why he’s bringing this up and ruining the moment. “Are you serious?” “Very. You scammed me over a year ago and I expect a full repayment. Also, I happen to collect interest. It’s a hefty, hefty interest fee.” “Okay.” You play along. “What do I owe you now?” You’re not sure what to expect. You’re never sure when it comes to him considering he’s so hard to read. But your breath hitches as he lowers himself to one knee and looks up at you with his tender features relaxed into the softest expression. He pulls something out of his pocket. “Nothing. It’ll be me who will owe you, if you would so graciously choose to spend your life with me—” You throw your arms around Yoongi. The both of you collapse onto the soft bed of grass and you giggle infectiously, pulling yourself up from him. “You’re an idiot, you know that? I really thought that for the rest of your life, you were just going to send me letters.” Yoongi grins a gummy smile. His arms wrap around your body and he reaches up to finally capture your lips on his. The two of you kiss each other, making up for the moments where you should’ve done it sooner. It’s sweet, but less than innocent with how eager it is. You only manage to pull away when out of the corner of your eye, you catch curtains shifting from upstairs. “Nosy, aren’t they,” Yoongi laughs. At the left window, your family is crowding around. Taehyung and Lia are shoving each other to get a look, Seokjin has his palms pressed against the glass, your father is grinning while your mother is absolutely astounded. At the right, both of Yoongi’s parents are peeking out owlishly. You see different members of the faction watching in both horror and confusion, having not yet heard of the news that the engagement is broken and assuming that they’re catching him in the midst of a scandal. But more importantly, you see Klarinda smiling infectiously at the top of the tower with her dad coming to look too. “Exciting, isn’t it?” Yoongi teases, “With so many guests watching.” “Is it so hard to get some damn privacy? This is why I prefer being on the move,” you whine and cast invisibility on the both of you. Yoongi laughs, closing the distance to kiss you again.

[Epilogue] “What if this is a trap.” “Then we’ll grab our weapons. But I don’t think it is.” There’s a house in the middle of the peaceful suburbs, placed in the middle of the street in a row of other homes. Built with bricks covered in render and an oak roof with a chimney on the side, it stands tall in a fairly asymmetrical pattern. The windows are large and it looks like the structure has two floors. More importantly, they swear they see the curtains shift on the left side. The two young adventurers step up on the wooden porch, facing the oak double doors. “Do we just….knock?” “I guess.” His fist raps against the surface while she braces herself for an attack. The door swings open. She hitches her breath, but an onslaught of offensive spells never happens. Instead, they see you. In a simple, brown dress and your hair braided in an updo with loose strands framing your full features. Your eyes glisten, giving a smile and the door widens. “Good afternoon! You children look so tired! Come in, come in!” The pair of them exchange expressions before stepping inside. The interior instantly takes their breath — cozy maple and fresh flowers at the entrance way, mementos on a shelf near the open staircase with a magical pull to them. It’s clear that the owners of this house have made it their own. They can tell each object carries its own meaning and memory, not merely for decoration or the purpose of luxury. “My name is Y/N,” you announce, with a light twinkle in your irises. “And I am a servant girl to the lord and lady of the house. May I ask who has entered the home?” “I-I am Park Jimin. It’s said that there’s a great and powerful sorcerer who lives here and a dark knight who’s been to Shadowfell.” “They’ve defeated dragons and liches before,” the girl beside him adds, brows furrowed as she regards you with a healthy amount of suspicion. “Well, it’s very nice to meet you. I’m afraid they’re not here at the moment. They went out to do some bidding, so you might have to wait a few hours until they return,” you inform and the two of them look at one another. “Can I ask for what reason you’re searching for them?” “We have received a prophecy and were sent by Mirla Nistar.” Jimin steps forward. “When lightning strikes twice, a man of darkness shall usher forth a country's doom and the end of wealth. We have reason to suspect that this man is the demon lord, Abraxas, who is trying to rise from Shadowfell.” You hum. “Alright. I’ll let them know as soon as they get back. Would any of you care for tea? I have the best honey and sugar available!” But suddenly, the dimpled boy feels a heavy weight on his mind. It’s a presence pressing on his brain, probing deep and whispering around the caverns of his skull for permission to be let inside. He grips his temples with a groan and his partner turns to him. “Jimin?” He looks off at you and she follows his line of sight. Before she can ask you what you just did, you slip something out of your pocket. In one split second— “Potion?” You hold up the stoppered bottle with the milky liquid sloshing inside. “You have a headache, don’t you? I know it when I see it! Must be from your long travels! Nothing like a rejuvenating potion to feel better.” “I..I’m alright.” Jimin lowers his hand. “Nonsense. You don’t want to miss this chance!” you emphasize. “I bet it wouldn’t even cost you a dime. You’re probably going to spend the same amount on some food or a place to stay at, so why not fork out some now? And it might be helpful for any upcoming adventures or expeditions!” “How much?” the skeptical girl slowly asks and you know you have it in the bag. “Ten gold pieces.” Your eyes glimmer. She digs into her satchel. But then— “What’s with the ruckus?” A rounded face and sleepy features lug down the stairs. He runs a hand through his baby yellow hair shagging in front of his forehead, having just woken up from a long nap. “Who are these people?” “They’re adventurers trying to defeat some demon punk—” “Demon lord,” the boy tries to correct. “—who’s apparently coming back to wreak havoc and steal children.” “Close enough,” he sighs. Yoongi makes a noise of acknowledgment, his expression impassive. Then his eyes dart at them and the potion in your hand. He points. “Are you trying to sell them that?” The corner of your mouth curls. “Maybe.” “Poor folks,” he exhales, utterly ruining your business transaction and not remorseful at all for it. “You’re going to get us into trouble one day.” You scoff. “When haven’t I gotten us into trouble. It’s not new news now.” Your husband grins and comes to sling an arm around your shoulder. He kisses you shamelessly in front of the two strangers, yet it’s a soft and tender gesture. It makes you smile against him. Suddenly, the door shuts behind them and the surrounding warm candlelight ignites. It billows a dim luminescence into the warm home that you’ve both made your own, glowing against the numerous mementos on the shelf that display the many years of your travels and journeys. Yoongi hugs you to his side and you quirk your head onto his shoulder with a sly smile. The adventurers finally come to recognize who the people in front of them are. And the pair of you turn to them. “What was it that you needed again?”

Cherry Blossoms (Hanzo Shimada + OC) Chapter 13

Chapter 13 of Cherry Blossoms (Master List)

Pairing: Alpha Hanzo + Omega OC

Word Count: 2422 words

The day after Halloween, an extremist anti-omnic group began a coup in Hong Kong. They had taken control of the airport, and were running through the streets attacking any omnics they came across, and in turn any organics with them. Winston sent a team out.

Danny startled awake at the sound of a ringtone going off. When she cracked her eyes open, she was met with the view of a bare chest. There was some blue ink on the chest, and following it to the shoulder it was attached to she could see it was Hanzo’s dragon tattoo. Upon gaining more awareness of everything, she could feel two strong arms around her waist.

With a squeak, she shot up, looking around. The arms around her tightened in protest, but she broke out of their hold in a panic. Hanzo startled awake at her forcefully tearing herself from his arms, and one hand reached up to rub his eyes to get the sleep out of them.

“What’s wrong, ‘me-” he cut himself off, eyes opening a bit more at the sight of a heavily breathing Danny. Almost instinctively, his arms went back around her, pulling her back down into his chest. “We fell asleep watching the movie, remember?” he prompted gently, and Danny took in a deep breath his scent flooding her nostrils and calming her almost instantly. She sighed happily.

“Y-yeah,” she murmured, nuzzling back into his chest and closing her eyes once more. “C-can we sl-sleep a little longer?” she asked, her lips brushing his chest as she spoke. Hanzo was thankful her face was against his chest and she wasn’t able to see the bright pink flush that had come to his cheeks. “Please?” Hanzo puffed out a sigh.

“I need to answer my phone,” he said, voice low and rough with sleep, and Danny sighed, throwing her arm out to Hanzo’s bedside table, grabbing his phone and holding it above her head.

“Here,” she grumbled, and Hanzo blinked, staring at his phone for a moment as he processed what was happening, and the domestic contentment that filled his chest. He took his phone gently from her hand, going to missed calls and calling back Winston before raising his phone to his ear. The scientist picked up after barely one ring.

“Hanzo?” the archer grunted.

“Yes Winston?” he grumbled, hand absentmindedly raising to stroke through Danny’s hair. She wasn’t asleep, but a small smile was on her face as she rested atop him with her eyes closed. The feeling of domesticity was so pleasant that the passing thought went through Hanzo’s head. It wouldn’t hurt for every morning to be like this. For once, the thought didn’t even alarm him.

“There’s an issue in Hong Kong,” Winston said, and Hanzo’s brows furrowed.

“What is it?”

“Some anti-omnic extremists are running around attacking omnics and omnic-sympathizers, we’re sending a team out,”

“And I’m on this team?” Danny’s head lifted a bit, looking up at Hanzo with a pinched face of concern. 

“Huh?” she mumbled, and Hanzo gave her an I’ll tell you later look, hand still stroking through her hair, and Danny sighed, slumping back against his chest.

“Yes, McCree, Hana, Reinhardt, Lucio, and Tracer are being sent to the airport to take out their central command,” Winston said. “You, Torbjörn, Angela, Brigitte and I are going to take out the smaller groups in the streets,”

“When do we leave?”

“As soon as you all can get ready and down to the hangar,” Hanzo let out a heavy sigh, glancing down at Danny for a moment before raising his eyes to the ceiling.

“I’ll be right down,” he said, before ending the call and putting his phone to the side. Danny peaked up at him with a questioning gaze.

“What’s going on?” she asked blearily. Hanzo sighed again.

“I need to go to Hong Kong,” he said, his hands going to her shoulders and prompting her to sit up. She sighed, sitting up and scooching over Hanzo so she could swing her legs over the edge of the bed. He sighed fondly, large hands falling to her hips and lifting her up. Danny squeaked as Hanzo put her back on his other side, plopping her down and gently pushing her shoulders back down. “You can still sleep,” he told her, standing from the bed and pulling the covers back over her. 

“Are you sure?” Danny asked, though it was clear to both of them that she was going to take him up on his offer whether it was genuine or not as she settled into his pillows with a sigh, eyes already slipping closed. One of her hands grabbed Hanzo’s comforter and tugged it up to her face, breathing in his calming scent of flowers and tea. Hanzo huffed out a chuckle as he quickly changed out of his costume from the night before and into his usual loose robe.

“Sleep,” he commanded softly, leaning down to peck her forehead without really thinking about it. A smile slipped onto Danny’s face as she slipped into that calm, dizzy state that came right before sleep. As such, she didn’t notice the pink that came to Hanzo’s cheeks when he realized what he had done. He quickly slipped out of his room, eyes widening when he saw Jesse McCree standing right outside his door.

“Mornin’ Hanzo,” McCree grinned at the archer, tipping his hat, and Hanzo nodded back, beginning to walk down the hall in the direction of the hangar. McCree followed, his spurs clicking as they walked down the hall. “Have you seen Danny?” the cowboy asked, and Hanzo raised an eyebrow at him. “Just didn’t find her in her room earlier,” he shrugged at the look, and Hanzo sighed.

“She fell asleep in my room last night,” he said, and Jesse hummed mischievously. Hanzo’s lips tugged down into a scowl. “What?” Jesse shrugged innocently.

“Awe, nothin’,” Hanzo grunted, and he could have laughed in relief when they finally reached the hangar. Winston was there, along with 7 others, and he cleared his throat when he saw the final two heroes walk in.

“Alright, gather round!” he called, and began the brief. “Anti-omnic extremists have taken over Hong Kong’s airport, as well as sending out smaller teams into the streets to attack any omnics and omnic-sympathizers they find. We’re going to have two teams: Mercy, Torbjörn, Brigitte, Hanzo, and myself will neutralize the terrorists in the streets, while McCree, Lucio, Reinhardt, D.Va, and Tracer will take back the airport!” Angela’s face pinched in worry.

“Winston, we’re still technically illegal,” she piped up. “Will this be okay?” Winston nodded.

“HKPD knows we’re coming, and the chief said that he’ll be thankful for the help,” he assured her, and Angela sighed in relief.

“Well, at least we know we won’t get arrested, might die, but not get arrested,” Torbjörn cracked, and Lucio grimaced.

“Honestly, I’d rather not go through the whole ‘getting arrested’ thing again,” Lucio sighed, and Hanzo’s brows rose in question, and Lucio backpedaled, sensing the imminent questions. “But uh, let’s go to Hong Kong! Not worry about my record…” the musician chuckled, scratching the back of his head nervously. 

“Shit!” Torbjörn exclaimed as a group of maybe 15 anti-omnic extremists rushed towards them. Everyone’s eyes widened when they saw multiple members of the group pulled out small bombs, arming them and preparing to throw them.

“Brigitte!” Winston called, but Brigitte grunted in frustration, shaking her gauntlet frantically.

“My shield isn’t working!” Hanzo’s eyes widened, pulling out an arrow and taking a deep breath. A blue energy began to glow around him, solidifying into his dragons.

“Ryuu ga waga teki wo kurau!” he shouted as he loosed the arrow, Sanda and Akarui spiraling forward in their mighty forms with his arrow, taking out the group that was rushing towards them. The few stragglers that were left found themselves screaming as the bombs their comrades had armed went off.

“Uh, we got a problem!” sounded through their comms, and Winston held tapped the comm in his ear.

“What is it, McCree?” he asked.

“We need back up, D.Va got hurt in the initial breach and there are way more than we expected,” McCree’s worried voice sounded through the comms, and Winston exchanged a worried look with the others.

“We’re on our way,” he said, before turning to Hanzo.

“Hanzo, you can get there quickest, go and provide support until the rest of us can get there,” the archer nodded, before running and grabbing an awning to swing himself up to the roof of a building. He ran off in the direction of the airport, eyes widening at the huge hole in the side of the main entrance.

“Where are you? It’s a big airport!” Hanzo demanded into his comm, McCree’s response crackling through only moments later.

“Right past the security checkpoint by the main entrance!” Hanzo’s eyes narrowed as he continued to run, soon enough hearing gunfire. Any civilians he encountered on the way, he told to get out of the airport, find somewhere safe.

“Vamos esculachar!” he heard Lucio shout as he rounded the corner, seeing, like McCree had said, the team huddled up by the security checkpoint. A green glow surrounded everyone as Lucio healed them up best he could, and Hanzo’s eyes narrowed as he saw a huge mec suit walking towards them. It had two huge turrets on its shoulders, which began to glow red as they fired up.

“Watch out!” he shouted, firing an explosive arrow at the mec, which barely phased it. McCree turned to Hanzo, seeing where the bow was firing and turning just in time to dive out of the way as the mec began firing. Reinhardt, who had just finished off a small group of attackers, turned to face the mec with a roar-like shout.

“For the crusaders!” he roared as he slammed his warhammer to the ground, a series of cracks lining the ground and rushing towards the mec, who had barely anytime to react before they were knocked off their feet. The person manning the mec let out a scream as they fell, the armor denting enough that it had surely injured the person inside. McCree jumped out from the barrier he had hidden himself behind then, pulling his peacekeeper out and shooting at the weak spots on the mec with deadly precision.

“It’s HIGH noon!” he shouted as the mec exploded, and everyone seemed to breathe a sigh of relief as the impending threat seemed to be subdued. 

It wasn’t to last however, McCree standing up and beginning to walk forward.

“Come on, we still need to finish them off,” he called, and Hanzo ran over and stopped Tracer from following the others.

“Stay with D.Va,” he told her. “The others will be here soon, until then we can’t leave her unprotected,” Tracer nodded, determination in her eyes.

“Got it!” she affirmed.

Almost 36 hours after the team had departed, they finally arrived back at the base. Exhausted, those who weren’t injured hightailed it back to their rooms, while the less fortunate ones had to stay and be treated by Angela.

Hanzo, only having some cuts and bruises, began to leave the hangar when he saw Danny running towards him. The corner of his lips quirked up in a small smile at the sight of her, and he barely had times to open his arms before she was barreling into them.

“Is everybody alright?” she asked, and Hanzo nodded, wincing when she gave him a tight squeeze. Perhaps his ribs were bruised as well… “Oh! I’m sorry! Are you hurt?!” Danny quickly pulled away, and Hanzo had to suppress the distressed noise that wanted to come out of his throat when she took her warmth and scent with her.

“I’m fine,” he assured her, but Danny narrowed her eyes, a hand raising to lightly prod his ribs. Hanzo let out a hiss of pain, and she sighed, grabbing his hand.

“Come on,” she began tugging him down the hall towards med bay, glancing over her shoulder at the others still in the hangar. “You too, Jesse! I need to look at that arm!” Jesse chuckled, tipping his hat at Angela before jogging to catch up to his little sister and the archer.

“You know how to fix his prosthetic?” Hanzo asked, surprised, and Danny nodded.

“I spent a year on the road with his sorry ass, I picked up a few things,” she grumbled, and Jesse chuckled.

“She’s better at fixing this thing than me at this point,” Jesse said, and Danny rolled her eyes.

“That’s because you only have one hand to fix it with,” she shot back, and Jesse shrugged, an indulgent smile on his face. She swung open the door to the medbay when the reached it, gesturing for her two shadows to sit as she began rifling through the cabinets.

“Where the hell are the biotic fields?” she murmured to herself, letting out a triumphant “Ah HA!” when she finally found one. She turned back to Hanzo, gesturing for him to take off his robe, which he did with only a slight blush. Danny very pointedly avoided looking too much as his toned chest, instead focusing intently on placing the biotic field above his ribs and turning it on.

“He gonna live, doc?” Jesse joked, and Danny sighed, pouting.

“I’m doing everything I can, but I don’t think he’s gonna make it,” she said softly, and Jesse gasped, putting his flesh hand to his chest in ‘shock’.

“Oh no!” he began fake sobbing, and Hanzo scoffed, reaching out a hand to shove the cowboy’s shoulder.

“I’m not dying anytime soon,” he grit out, and Danny smiled, nodding.

“You better not!” she chirped, giving Sanda and Akarui a pat on each of their heads when they peaked out of his tattoo. “Otherwise I won’t get to see these adorable little dragons again!” her voice raised in pitch, and Hanzo raised a brow.

“You’ll only miss the dragons?” he challenged, a small smile on his face as he knew she was only joking. Danny hummed, glancing up at him.

“I mean, I guess I’ll miss you too,” she sighed, and Hanzo chuckled, reaching a hand up to ruffle her hair. Danny pouted, but allowed him to do so begrudgingly.

“I’m not going anywhere anytime soon,” he assured her, and Danny gave him a soft smile.

“Good,”

…

“What am I? Chopped liver? My arm’s sparking over here!”

“Sorry!”

Unspoken Member Of The Order

pairing: Charlie Weasley X Pureblood!Reader (Sirius Black X Pureblood!Reader, platonic) 

summary: Stumbling into the house with a bloody and gruesome cut on your thigh, with little to no energy left in your body- who are you? And why has no one talked about you?

word count: 3.1k+

warning: Blood, Angst, Fluff

note: It’s just a rollercoaster ☺️ This is my writing submission for @acciosnapes ‘s writing challenge and I was very excited to do this as this being my first time doing such a thing. 

The end was creeping in the corners of the dark dungeon, shadows of it making an appearance into the air. Agonizing pain rippled throughout her body, the drips of crimson blood stained the plain floor, painting its’ boring colours. Metal clicks echoed throughout the empty room. A breathless sigh left her lips at the relieving sound, her head thrown back to rest onto the cold concrete wall. They’re coming. They will. They promised. Useless assurance she told herself, eyes shut tight to insert a setting that will pull her out of the stabbing wounds; nothing can numb it. She tried her best, vast green fields with rainbow flowers, poking from the green land. But every time she would imagine figures to accompany her, the prodding pain pulled her into reality. It was as if it didn’t want her to leave it alone.

She breathed out, wincing silently at the throbbing thoughts. Her eyes fluttered open, hands curling at the sight. Rips of her pants displayed the scarlet red mess of her blood, the wound kissed onto her skin merciless; the depth caused her to breathe in- in an attempt to cope with the pain. The memory made her pant, she would rather die than have to do it all over again. Her hands brushed over the prominent lines, threads of the pain were like poking a needle. Instead, this time it would be billions at the same time. The remembrance to put pressure flew into her head. She winced, grinding onto her teeth, clenching her jaw as she pressed her hand onto her bleeding skin, eyes shut tight.

Pulling her hand away, she sucks air in as her eyes land to face the mess. The metallic scent meandered to enter her lungs, dark crimson smeared onto the palms of her hands as it cascaded down her arm; like melting wax. It soaked the tip of her sleeves, the cloth absorbing drizzles of blood. Patting her face with the back of her hand, she sighed at the bloody trail that smeared faintly. The punching stench of iron would be the first thing she would want to remove.

Abruptly, a muffled swirl yelled. Her head snapped to face the sudden interruption of her thoughts. A petite creature stumbled, hands flailing around to stabilize its’ body. A faint smile playing on her lips, relief engulfed her. The familiar short figure slapped her to realization, “Lolly?” Her ears quirked up, twirling back with a content grin plastered on her lips.

“Miss Y/N!” The house-elf whispered loudly when their eyes met, the genuine happiness that roared in her body was extinguished with pity when her eyes scanned the figure of her bloody member of the family she served. As the creature approached the whimpering body, she assured. “We need to get you out of here, Miss.” Hasty paced footsteps echoed bounced off the walls of the spacious room, the house-elf’s head snapped up to glanced at the only possible entrance, the iron-bar doors; she gulped. Y/N nodded, Lolly’s baby-like hands grasped hers that shivered- shaking, the warmth comforting her frail body. The banging on the metal door was the last thing she heard before they apparated; away to a safe place. Finally, was the only word that circled around Y/N’s head.

She stumbled, whimpering as she landed onto her back. A groan left her lips as the grass pricked her wounded skin. Panic simmered into Lolly, who frantically looked around- head whipping side to side, confused and panic. The tall-standing distorted house sparked a very obvious idea in her head. Apparating to the front of the door, she wasted no time to knock. After multiple rapping, a muffled voice on the other side of the door yelled, before it was pulled to an open. Rays of faint light glowed onto the figure of a man with untamed curly, black hair. The short conversation (which was more of a quick interrogation) between the two ended as his eyes pulled away, orbs landing on the bloody body of someone he held dearly close. His eyes widened, pacing without wasting a second- his boisterous footsteps and crunching of the dried leaves that smeared the ground in front of the house caught the attention of the people that were present in the confinement of the house. Heads of different heights were quick to poke out of the door.

Pushing the shorter bodies that stood in his way, gently; another figure appeared, “Y/N!” Following that was another head of a guy but all she could do was breathed in and out in steady paces, bleary-eyed. Placing his warm fingers on her neck, he winced at the coldness of her body; her body was lifted by two strong arms. Her head lolls- resting on his chest. A faint smile on her lips when the slightly noticeable scent sneaked into her lungs. Rays of light beamed to glow on her, gasps echoed as the crowd around her moved back to make space for the man to walk past. Shuffling of footsteps rubbed onto the wooden floor, heads poking to take a glance at the gruesome sight.

“Oh Dear!” Y/N grimaced, wincing at the screeching; she wanted to smile but the abrupt pressure on her leg encased her throat. “What happened?” She yelled, worry and concern laced her motherly voice.

Placing down her body onto a soft mattress gently, Sirius made sure to place her down like a piece of fragile glass; not wanting to harm her anymore than she has endured, he kneels beside the couch, his leg nudging the table that plotted too close, “Move this back.” Listening to the order with no complaints, loud screeching and deafening nudging of objects resounded through the living room; as Molly demanded more space for the injured. He breathed out, panicked and frantic.

Her lids closed and open softly; blinded by the bright lamp that rested beside her head, breathing ragged as her limbs felt it’s’ energy drain, “Wait… that lash,” Fluttering her eyes open, she tried her best to keep it open- her hands clenching to push the tiredness away. “It’s a dragons’.”

Whispers slithered through the room, audible gasps in surprise as they huddled around the injured body. Opening her dry mouth, she smacked her lips, licking the bottom of the cracked mouth. She croaked out, “H-hebridean Black... it was a Hebridean Black...” It took all of her energy to take a quick glimpse at the man who stood above her; soft dots of freckles smeared on his flushed cheeks, his ginger head like a fox’s fur.

“Well, let’s treat it immediately.” Another voice prodded, suggesting a piece of advice. And no one noticed her passing out.

Molly gave her instructions clearly and demanded the children to go to their rooms immediately. But of course, Harry protested stubbornly, persisting to stay, like the little person he is. With that, Hermione and Ron joined in, wanting to stay with their friend; followed by the twins. Leaving Ginny alone, and unfortunately for her, no one supported the idea of her staying in the room. The creaking sound of the wooden stairs grumbled as she made a clear step on each stair, making sure everyone can hear it. Charlie had already left the room after a short silence of contemplation.

Feeling as if it was right to stay silent, the kids zipped their mouth to a shut; waiting in the corner of a room, not wanting to be kicked out. Standing on their toes to watch as the adults worked, walking from one side to the other- lost in thoughts. Not wanting to proceed without a clear instruction from a supervisor- in case something went wrong; they owled the other members of the Order but the first one to make an appearance was Kingsley Shacklebolt; following him were the rest.

“We should owl healers,” Kingsley suggested, glancing at the wound that bared on her leg. “We don’t have the materials with us.” As soon as that slipped off his lips, Charlie ran back in- arm full of things, all piled into a peak. Some objects clashing with the ground. Dumping the stuff on the floor with a huff; he scanned the materials, grabbing the thing he was looking for.

“You know what to do right… Charles?” Tonks question halted the Weasley’s movements, he looked up to her and nodded. Gulping barely noticeable.

The procedure began, safe as Kingsley could only watch as a supervisor. Alastor commanded, narrowing his eyes towards the kids that made the room stuffy, “I think you all should leave.” And no one dared to protest for they scurried out of the room and ran up to their respected rooms.

 AFTER FEW DAYS 

Her eyes fluttered open, squinting it as soon as the light beamed into her orbs. Punching in her head made her groan, her hand quickly massaged the pain that resided in her head. The dryness in her throat burned with a tight squeeze. She let out a groan, glancing right and left- not knowing where she was. Plopping herself up with her elbows with all her energy, she scanned the room. It was clearly a bedroom.

“You’re awake! Scared us really, Kingsley wanted to send you to St. Mungos,” Her head snapped to face the owner of the voice to land her eyes on a familiar ginger-haired boy she rested her eyes before she passed out into a very rechargeable sleep. Her eyes widened, at his words. Leaning on the doorframe, he held a tray with an empty glass cup and a jug full of water, accompanying it was smaller vials of coloured (what she assumes was) potions. “Here, don’t want you to faint on us again.”

He chuckled, entering the room and taking a seat on the edge of the bed. Passing her the cup, he poured some water in it. To which she grasped, fingers shivering and shaking. Charlie noticed this, holding the cup in front of her lips. She quirked her eyebrow at him, wanting to do it by herself. The rim of the glass brushed her lips, and she reluctantly opened her mouth, he tilted it slightly, his tongue poking out in concentration- the liquid flowing into her mouth. Gulping down the whole cup, she felt her throat warming and softening, “Thank you… H-how long was I out for?”

He hummed, looking up as he tapped his chin, “3 to 4 days, the dragon really beat you back there,” He chuckled, clearing his throat when he realized the joke didn’t come out the way he wanted. “The wound is still healing so no strenuous exercises.” Her eyes widened at the remembrance of the wound, glimpsing at the blanket-covered leg, she tugged the cloth away- her heart clenched at the sight.

The quilted blanket that warmed her now displaying her wrapped leg, blotches of crimson red blood stained the bandage, passing it to smear onto the blanket. A smile enlightened onto her face when she knew it was Molly who would sew this all together. She couldn’t wait to see everyone again; the months of isolation away from the group (who she would prefer to be with) had definitely changed her. But never who she was.

“Well, drink these and we can go down to see everyone,” He smiled softly as he placed the tray on the bedside table. Standing from the bed, he turned around to exit the room to give her privacy. Halting in his steps, he swirled around to face her. “Oh, Charlie by the way,”

She smiled and nodded as he left the room, she could see the side of his figure outside of the room. And so she gulped the vials of potions, she grimaced at the taste, pinching her nose to close so she couldn’t have to agonize the nasty taste. Charlie’s head peeked in to check her, he entered once he noticed the empty vials that were originally filled to the brim, “here, let me help- woah!” 

Losing her balance, she tripped and closed her eyes for the impact to slap her and was luckily saved by an arm wrapping around her waist. Her eyes fluttered open, the moment lingered before they realized how close they really were, Charlie’s eyes widened at the close proximity; pulling her to her feet as a quick reflex.

His face flushed the shades of red, nearly matching his fiery hair, “I’m sorry–” Trying their best to not burst into laughter- failed, their awkward and embarrassed giggles filled the silent air.

Arriving at the living room with Y/Ns’ arm wrapped around Charlie’s neck, she tried her best to avoid whimpering. Everyone was too deep into the conversation, too focused to notice the person who had been the main talk of the house for several days now. Charlie coughed, trying to catch everyone’s attention, but no one noticed as Fred’s voice increased louder. He coughed again, Remus’s head whipped to face the interruption. Pulling away from the newspaper with furrowed eyebrows, Remus grinned- content and on top of the world when he saw the person he was worrying so much for lately.

“Y/N!” Remus yelled out, everyone snapped their head to face the brown-haired man. Everyone huddled around her, glaring question towards the girl who just woke up. She could only wear a smile as she scanned the faces, everyone was worried about her, although a twinge in her heart twitched when she didn’t find the face she wanted. What a fool she was to think they forgot about her.  

Charlie who noticed her becoming uncomfortable and suffocated from the lack of space spoke up, “Guys, guys, she just woke up.” Listening obediently, everyone paced back, sitting back to their previous seats. Making space for the injured, they all squished together- making sure she had extra space to breathe. Ginny slapped Ron’s arm who pushed her to the edge of the seat, squeezing the life out of her. Their short petty agreement ended, not resolved, with a glare from Molly.

Biting down on her teeth, she clenched onto Charlie’s shoulder as he gently placed her down, making sure it was soft as possible- not wanting her to be hurt. He did his best to ignore the pain she was putting on his shoulder, and as soon as he plotted her down he huffed out, slamming his body next to her. Y/N laughed, slapping his chest at the exaggerated action.

Silence engulfed the group, glancing at one another with no topic in mind to talk about. It was awkward and everyone sighed out a breath of relief when Sirius entered the room. His voice bouncing into her ear, “Y/N!!” His boisterous laugh that she missed dearly caused her whole heart to lighten, his arms were quick to wrap around her. Which pulled away when she winced, painting his face was worry and concern. “Where have you been?” Resting his hands on the sides of her face, he pressed a soft kiss onto her lips, the corners of his lips curled up when he pulled back.

The whole room’s demeanour shifted, eyes glancing left and right as everyone froze from the sight. A heart clenched as only three smiles glowed through the room, the rest sitting uncomfortably at the sight. Sirius rested his forehead on hers, not letting her face go- their eyes shut as they embraced each other’s presence.

“Where have you been Sirius?” Arthur spoke up, breaking the crickets chirping silence.

“Hm?” Sirius pulled back from their smiling contest. Not bothered that everyone was staring at them. “Oh, I had something I had to clear, nothing big. Don’t worry,” He sent a faint smile towards the father, who smiled back- understanding. His present had definitely enlightened her mood, seeing Sirius after everything they went through together as very close friends had left an impact on her. She remembered the day his crimes were whispered from mouth to ears. Sirius would never do such a thing, he loved James. He would never.

Maybe this was a gift for her chivalry to volunteer to be the puppet for the Death Eaters. His happiness and his smiles meant everything to her. Ruffling her hair, Sirius smile widened; if that was possible, “I need to check on something, see you later.” He pressed a gentle kiss onto her forehead before walking out of the living room.

Conversations flowed normally, everyone chatting to one another- Y/N sat back as she watched everyone’s mouth open and close; not leaving anyone out of the talk. It felt warm, comfortable… it felt like home. She grinned at the joy that sparked in her, this is what takes over her thoughts whenever she needed a memory of happiness. It felt like before.

Even though it was warm with the fireplace and lovely with casual talks, she needed to go out; to breathe the fresh air she hadn’t been able to do for a very long time. Head craning up, her eyes shut tight as the rays of moonlight caressed her skin, gleaming onto the cuts that began to heal, painted onto her face. She pursed her lips into a thin line, heaving a sigh when the memory of receiving the displaying pain. Listening to the peaceful wildlife and chirping of the crickets- which was cut off by the clucking of the chickens that rested in their coop. Charlie gulped, biting his bottom lips in contemplation if he should ask the question, this could ruin everything. But he needed to ask it, or else it would be ingrained into his head; and it will never leave him until he asked her, get it out off him. While he twirled a piece of grass between his fingers his eyes did not bother to blink.

“So… you and Sirius…?” Finally, he managed to pull it out, his blood ran cold when answered by shuffling from the still-awake chickens, she hadn’t responded- head-snapping away from the field to face her. Anticipation climbed into his heart, secretly impatient for her to answer. And he was hoping to hear the reply he wanted, which was unlikely.

“Hm?” She peeled her eyes away from glittery stars, turning her head to face the Weasley who already had his eyes on her; waiting for her reaction. A flash of amusement played on her face when she had to play the words again, she always got the same question when she was still under the wings of Hogwarts; a student who somehow stumbled to accompany and stand beside the mischievous Marauders. “Oh, no, we are- we were engaged once… you know pureblood family and all. We’re close, Sirius and me.”

He nodded, comprehending what she was talking about. Even though inside he was screaming with a wave of relief- he froze, not moving a muscle; why was he relief? His eye widened, oh no, feelings.

Just a Dream - Part 1 (F!Byleth x Edelgard)

Rating: General Audiences Archive Warning: Major Character Death Words: 2,173 Summary:  The war is finally over and it was the Adrestian Empire's win. Most everyone moved onward from the conflict at their own pace. For Edelgard, she has a surprise coming from Byleth one night.

A/N: Obviously due to Tumblr’s layout, I doubt I can leave my author’s note to the bottom like I intend to. Oh well. This is a fun side project I was working on! The second half should be out next week or so... depending on how my school load is going and, god forbid, if my PI isn’t a jerk. Hope you enjoy this! I enjoyed writing this fluffy piece, heh.

-----

The atrocious conflict that lasted for more than five years came to a roaring conclusion.

What should have been a magnificent creature in legends stayed as a legend, its real counterpart far crueler than any villain in history. Two brave leaders swung their relics at the formidable white dragon. In one strike, the beast pierced the fiery battlefield with its shriek. An axe and a sword plunged its sharp edges into its thick scales. Bloodied, battered, and bruised, the large monster wildly tossed its head left and right. Another inhumane squeal tore from its elongated throat as it dug its massive claws on the cracked pavement.

Byleth and Edelgard plopped back on the ground simultaneously. Sweat gleamed on their foreheads, their breaths bated, and eyes trained on the foul beast. Their weapons were deeply ensnared in its moist flesh. No matter how much the dragon shook, it won’t remove the powerful blades. Amidst the flames in the background, their surviving comrades and troops watched in awe.

“It’s… finally over,” the emperor breathed. “We won.”

Just as she uttered that confident statement, the white dragon collapsed to the side, its jaw jutted open. Black blood pooled underneath its large head as its last light flickered out. Everyone kept their limbs locked in place, their respiratory system temporarily paused. Byleth and Edelgard eventually straightened their posture. Although they were out of breath, they exchanged glances. Then, a worn smile broke out from their face.

“Thank you… Byleth.”

This war’s victor was none other than the Adrestian Empire.

Peace draped over the united land after five, long miserable years. Although there were plenty of sacrifices and regrets from Byleth and Edelgard, they marched forward with their heads held up high. After all, the emperor must reign over their new country and people with persistence and conviction. It was a worthy offering for the next chapter in Fodlan.

As for the leaders of the Black Eagle Strike Squad? Many of their comrades retired from the battlefield. Some of their comrades worked under or alongside with Edelgard.

Petra returned to Brigid with the songstress shortly after the final battle to build a diplomatic relationship between the two nation. Eventual news about a new theatrical show in Brigid starring none other than Dorothea spread across the sea. Its popularity skyrocketed as many nobles desperately scrambled onto the next boat to catch a glimpse of the beautiful opera singer. Lest to say, many were disappointed to hear that she was already taken. The Brigid queen made sure to make it clear.

Linhardt resumed his activity as a researcher, eager to chew on anything that perks his interest. Whenever Edelgard and Hubert visited the man’s estate, he would greet them with a piece of toast, their much-need answers, and a slam of a door. Hark, it was not from malice! Disturbance of a slumbering prince would present a predictable reaction. This led to a small stack of apologetic, handwritten letters from the green-haired to the emperor.

Bernadetta slithered back to her life as a noble— Well, it would have been more peaceful had it not been for Caspar. That young man made sure to take her out every month to sightsee a new scenery during his service with Edelgard. Safe to say, Bernadetta both did and did not appreciate his way of carrying her high up the mountains or through the fields in plain view. (How embarrassing!) Their laughter could be heard from miles away as the couple bloomed in the vast, green field.

Ferdinand and Hubert continue to maintain a close relationship with their new emperor’s activity at the castle. Of course, many of the guards and Byleth would spot them sharing a moment of tranquility over tea with each other. Suffice to say, they knew how to take care of each other in ways not even Edelgard knows.

Shamir and Catherine broke off from the group and traveled the country. No one knew where they were. The only clues they’ve left behind were the occasional, unaddressed letters delivered to Byleth at the castle. That didn’t include the rumors of famous fight scenes that broke out throughout Fodlan. (It appears they were mostly self-initiated by the troublesome duo.)

Overall, the turbulent times simmered down to a lazily, wafting steam. Those Who Slither in the Dark were still a danger to society, but Edelgard, Byleth, Caspar, Ferdinand, and Hubert were on top of their game. It was a lengthy session of chess, but so far, they’re nearing the endgame. Hubert, Ferdinand, and Byleth approximated about five more years until this evil is squashed for good. Five more years until Edelgard can retire.

“Edelgard?”

At the emperor’s patio of her grand bedroom late at night, the woman in bright red glanced over her shoulder. Edelgard released her hold on the concrete railings and approached the older female. The moon’s soft rays of light lit Byleth’s entrance into her vision. Her ex-professor had both hands behind her back, her hues sparkled like the stars. It would almost seem out of character had they not been dating!

Edelgard tried to resist an amusing chuckle as Byleth slowed her steps.

“Professor, what brings you here?”

Both females stood in front of each other. The close approximation allowed their breaths to tickle each other. They shyly giggled. Byleth soon leaned down to plant her lips on the shorter’s forehead. Pleasant warmth grew in the noble’s chest as she rested her hand on the other’s chest. She lowered her head and felt the corner of her lips curve upward.

“Okay, Byleth, what is it that you have to tell me?”

“You’re always straight to the point.”

“That’s just who I am.”

“Well… I have a surprise for you.”

Byleth began to back away from the emperor. The ex-mercenary got down on one knee. Her hands that were once behind her back were brought forward. There was a small object pinched between her thumb and index. It was a silver ring ornamented with bits of fine gemstones and diamonds; a precious gift that her father, Jeralt, had once given to her mother. He bestowed it upon his daughter before the incident that transpires afterward.

“Will you marry me, El?”

Her cheeks flushed. Those were the words Edelgard would never expect to hear from anyone in her life. Commitment to ending the Hresvelg line and isolating herself from politics once her duties were complete was all that filled her mind. She and Byleth had fallen in love, but they never exchanged anything more than a simple peck or tender embrace. Honestly, Edelgard held low expectations for their relationship to deepen. The fact that her partner in battle would become her lifelong partner increased her heartbeat’s pace.

' Is this a dream? It's too good to be true! '

The noble’s violet hues searched for an object other than Byleth to fixate. Happiness was an understatement. It was a complete understatement. No terminology in any living dictionary would be able to describe the euphoric sensation that threatens to burst from the seam of her epidermis. She failed to completely remove her gaze from Byleth as her reply tumbled out of her mouth like a rockslide.

“I— Wow, yes… Yes!” She finally diverted her attention back to the teal-haired. Hidden ears as rosy as her cheeks, she grinned from ear to ear. “Yes, I want to marry you, Byleth!”

No time was wasted in slipping the ring onto Edelgard’s finger. She cautiously removed the armored glove. Scars and permanent engravings from her surgical procedures were exposed to the open air. A shudder ran down Edelgard’s spine; she had to resist the temptation to rip her hand away. Besides, when her tactician inserted the precious band, all forms of negativity eroded away in a flash. The ring’s surface glimmered in the moonlight as Byleth brought her lips on her soon-to-be-official-wife’s knuckles. The sensitive flesh brushed upon the marked hand.

“We’ll always be together in spirit.”

“Just in spirit, though?”

Edelgard chuckled as her professor rose from the crouch. Hands now holding each other, they exchanged a kiss. At her lips’ touch, the vermillion girl blossomed like a flower. Sweet nectar dripped from her lover’s whispers as they went in for a second round. They repeatedly kissed, the one after another becoming briefer and more playful. Their eyes were closed as giggles emitted from their direction. From a distant, it would be to no one’s surprise if literal heart shapes sprouted from the couple.

“Once we finish ridding Those Who Slither in the Darkness, we shall find an appropriate person fit for the throne.”

“Mm… Five years is long, isn’t it?”

“We cannot help it. We have to stay focused on our goals.”

“It would be nice if five years were to hurry, don’t you think?”

“I agree.”

Edelgard placed a hand on her hip once their hold broke away. She looked downward, the smile lingering.

“Still, I have you by my side. To think that I would be walking down this path on my own… I was mistaken. I wouldn’t know what to do if you weren’t with me.”

“You should learn how to be independent without me, El.”

“Oh, hush! I doubt that would ever happen now that we’ve promised to be with each other.”

“…in spirit.”

“Why do you keep saying that? I hope you are misunderstanding the original phrase—”

A faint, but warm, yellow light glowed on Edelgard’s face. Stars. Tiny, little stars twinkled before the shorter female.

“?”

Particles of light began to grow brighter around the emperor. Edelgard raised her head; her violet eyes widen at the newfound sight.

“Byleth…?”

The older woman tilted her head, eyelids closed and smiled. Those particles grew in its number as Byleth became transparent. Their gentle nature floated near her face, almost as if they tried to hug her. Alas, these creations were not permanent. They were meant to fade away into nothingness… just like her Byleth.

“Byleth!”

She reached out towards her lover with the same hand that received the ring.

That was right… How could she have forgotten?

During the final battle, the two emerged victoriously… but at a heavy cost. Byleth had collapsed after the dragon’s death. Edelgard immediately dashed to her girlfriend; she ignored the throbbing aches from her bruises and stings from her cuts. The noble flipped over the instructor. A quick examination told her of the bad news. Confirmation was needed, and it was a confirmation Edelgard wished she had never done.

Byleth’s heart stopped beating. No matter how many times she pressed her ear against her chest, pressed her fingers upon her wrist, and shook the older woman, Byleth would not crack open her eyelids. Not a single peep came out of her mouth.

Did she die peacefully?

She didn’t know. She won’t know. She will never know.

“Are you leaving me again?”

Tears stained Edelgard’s cheeks as she witnessed her professor nod at her direction.

“This is farewell.”

Farewell? There was no need for farewell when the noble glanced down at her hand again. The ring… it was still there. Yes! It was still there! That same ring that she had slipped onto her ring finger! It… No— it has always been there. Byleth had given it to her and proclaimed her proposal right before the final mission. It was the last gift her girlfriend— her wife had given to her before the untimely demise.

She felt her throat become dry and lips tremble. Edelgard grabbed at the bright lights that encompassed her significant other. They went through her fingers. But she repeated her actions. It became frantic and wild as dizziness seeped into her skull. The tears continued to pour from her lacrimal glands as Edelgard shook her head with slanted eyes.

“No… NO!”

This isn’t right!

“Don’t you dare—!”

Her heart squeezed until it physically caused pain. Streams flowed down her face as her fingers curled inward at the golden clumps. Another outcry burst in-between her sharp exhales.

“I’ve already lost you once!”

No no no no no—!!!

Why can’t she grab her?!

Why?!

WHY?!

WHY IS THIS HAPPENING?!

“Don’t leave me again!” she wailed at the disappearing woman. “Please! I don’t know what to do anymore!”

Byleth reached her illuminated hand out. Though contact was not felt, she began to smooth the crying noble’s head. Particles from her legs began to dim as she tilted her head. Despite the anguish from her lover, she still smiles. How could she still smile…? No, that smile was only because she was an illusion. Edelgard’s blurred vision deluded her of a Byleth she finds solace in. Her lips trembled violently as another choking sob blubbered out of her.

Her professor, her friend, her lover, her only one closed her eyelids.

“Open your eyes, my dear Edelgard. This was only just a dream.”

This delusion has to end… and the first step to it is acceptance. As Byleth vanished, Edelgard crumpled to her knees. She cried hard into her hands, her weeping echoed into the lonesome night.

Title: A Dragon’s Magic Chapter 8 Pairing:  Kacchako Rating: M Word Count:  6,887 Summary: Uraraka Ochako has always believed in dragons, though she was constantly told they were long since extinct. Now an adult and professional mage, she’s ready to help her parents as a healer for their village. The last thing she expects is for her beliefs to become a reality, but when a dragon attacks her village, she learns there’s more to magic than she ever could’ve realized. Read on AO3 Thanks to @its-love-u-asshole for reading this over.

With a huff, Bakugou followed Uraraka and Todoroki to a large covered arena the townsfolk prepared for the dragon battle. Apparently this town enjoyed tournaments and sports, and many people spent their time gambling here... it was possibly the worst place Kirishima could've ended up.

He wrinkled his nose when they stepped into the arena, the loud cheers and murmurings of humans hurting his ears. Deplorable fucking creatures. How the hell did they think it was okay to hurt an endangered creature. Did humans find something rare and immediately want to be rid of it?

He glanced at Uraraka, gesturing to Todoroki about something, he couldn't hear her over the large roaring of the crowd. He supposed not all humans were bad, and perhaps it wasn't fair for him to make an assumption. Or maybe... it was just that he didn't hate her.

"I'll go sign us up," Uraraka said, gesturing to a long line of men waiting by the entrance. "Get us a seat?"

Bakugou nodded, following after Todoroki. The crowd was already rowdy, cheering over loud music. Many of them were drinking already, looking jovial and ready to celebrate whoever their champion would be.

The arena was dome shaped and covered with large bars, and Bakugou wondered if he and Kirishima could break them if they were both in dragon form. He supposed they needed to have some way to keep Kirishima fucking contained.

He growled, looking at the ceiling. Hopefully Kirishima hadn't lost his fucking mind. If he only had the mind of a dragon, it would make it next to impossible to communicate with him, even if they were both in dragon form.

"How is here, Bakugou?" Todoroki asked, and he stared at the spot. He didn't give a shit where they sat, so instead of responding, he plopped his ass down, folding his arms. He adjusted the hood on his cloak, making sure it stayed up. The last thing he needed was to reveal his shit to the people around them.

"Oi... Half and Half..." he muttered, folding his arms. "Do you think this is going to work?"

Todoroki blinked, as if he was surprised Bakugou was asking him such a serious question. He frowned, turning towards the center of the arena. "If you listen to Uraraka, I think it'll go well."

"Mmm..." he grumbled, keeping his arms folded across his chest.

He fucking hated the idea of having to listen to a goddamn human, but she was convinced this plan would work.

It also meant having to use his dragon form, something he was actively trying to avoid doing. The last thing he needed was to get stuck too. If need be, he would force himself to shift back to human form, but it would be unpleasant, and possible drain more magic from himself than needed.

"Bakugou?"

"Hah!?" he growled, snapping from his thoughts as he turned to look up at Uraraka. Fuck she was pretty. Her hat covered part of her forehead, but her brown hair still brushed against her round cheeks, the sun a bright backdrop against her cute smile.

"Uhm... I asked if you could move over just a bit?" she said.

Blinking, Bakugou shook his head, pulled from his damn thoughts.

"Whatever," he growled, moving closer to Todoroki.

"I signed us up," she said softly. "They made fun of me, saying they didn't think a little girl like me could possibly take on the dragon."

Bakugou frowned. "That's fucking bullshit. I'd like to see their pansy asses take on a dragon."

"Well... we're not first..." she whispered. "So you will get the chance to watch. Hopefully no one else... is strong enough."

"Like hell they will be!" Bakugou snorted and folded his arms.

"Yeah..."

"Welcome everyone, to the first annual dragon slaying competition!" A loud voice boomed from up on the top of the stands. "I'm the mayor of this fair town, and today many of you have signed up to have the chance to take on the great red dragon we have captured. It took many of our ice, ground, and fire elemental guard to capture such a large creature and today... You will have the chance to prove your strength against such a powerful being!"

"Fuckin' idiot," Bakugou growled.

Before the mayor could continue speaking, there was a loud roar heard in the distance, the entire stadium shaking. Bakugou clenched his fists by his side. It was certainly Kirishima, he would've recognized the deafening sound anywhere. Though he could tell the sound was painful... Kirishima's roar didn't have the normal spark Bakugou was used to.

"There you have it! The creature approaches! We do hope you know that we have constrained the dragon to the best of our ability, but we cannot be held responsible if it attacks or breaks free. Our guard does stand at the ready," the man continued.

The ground shook, and Bakugou narrowed his eyes, watching as the large gates to the arena opened. Men were pulling on long chains, tugging the creature forward and when Kirishima finally entered the arena, Bakugou stood up, his body trembling with anger.

His wings were chained back, unable to fly even if he wanted to. There was a large chain muzzle around his lips, his jaw unable to open much wider; no wonder his cry had been so muffled.

"Sit down!" A man behind Bakugou pushed his hand onto his shoulder and Bakugou whipped his head around, glaring.

"Don't you tell me what to fucking do, I'll bite your head off."

"E-Eesh..." The man blinked, slowly pulling his hand away.

"B-Bakugou maybe you should-"

"Look at what they're doing! Of course they're going to kill him!" he snapped. "I'm gonna fucking kill them first!"

Kirishima let out another pained cry, tugging his head back on the chains. A few of the men on the ground fell backwards, but even with the movement, Kirishima didn't have enough control over his wings. They were torturing him, and it was possible they were going to kill him.

"B-Bakugou... please!"

Her fingers gently wrapped around his hand, giving him a gentle tug. As much as he wanted to charge out and rescue his friend, he knew it would do him no good to be impatient. Slowly, he lowered himself back down, trembling against the bench.

"You'll have your time, Bakugou," Todoroki said calmly.

"We fucking better!"

"I present to you... the RED DRAGON!" The mayor called out and the entire audience erupted into a loud cheer.

Kirishima glanced around, smoke huffing from his nostrils as he clearly searched for some way to escape. His wings fluttered, the chains rattling as he tried to spread them, finding himself immediately incapable of movement.

"He's not gonna have a fucking chance..." Bakugou hissed, his fingers curling against his pants. How the fuck was he supposed to do anything if he was completely chained up? He wouldn't be able to use his fire, nor would he be able to fly...

"First up, we have our strongest barbarian! A man from the city! To prove how strong this dragon is... let's see how well he fares!" The mayor’s voice was loud and nasally, disgusting to listen to, and Bakugou wondered if all human leaders were this deplorable.

"Fuck," he muttered, watching the man step into the arena with a giant battle axe. His muscles were huge, pulsing as he held the large weapon in his hand.

Kirishima's pathetic cry was heard throughout the arena and surely farther than that... even with his mouth chained, the sound was booming.

The man swung his axe and Kirishima leaped back, his legs collapsing to the ground. The man's axe hit his leg and Kirishima stumbled backwards, bright red blood seeping from the thick gash in his skin.

"Shit," Bakugou cursed. "Let's go now..."

"We can't... not yet!" Uraraka hissed.

Fucking bullshit, they couldn't-

With another loud roar, the man raised his axe, and Kirishima stomped with his other foot on the ground, causing the man to stumble backwards. It wasn't enough to throw him completely off balance as he charged forward again.

Kirishima tried to jump back and swing his tail towards the man, but the barbarian clipped the edge with his axe. Kirishima's head swung back, his mouth opening slightly while he yelped in pain.

All around the audience cheered, hollering with joyous laughter for the awful barbarian man.

"I-I can't watch this," Uraraka breathed, covering her eyes. He couldn't exactly blame her. Nothing about the fight was fucking fair. Then again, if Kirishima was unchained, this man would be dead in a moment.

The man let out a hearty laugh. He lifted his axe once more, charging forward as he leaped up. This time, however, Kirishima lowered his head, swinging it to the side. He knocked the man straight against the wall. He more than likely would've been fine, if he hadn't been holding the axe behind him, it pressed into his back, shooting straight through his stomach and chest. Blood spurted from his mouth and his limbs, and he immediately slouched over as he dangled against the wall.

All around the audience booed and hissed, gasping at such a ghastly sight.

"Good fucking riddance," Bakugou snapped.

"O-Oh... the man has come to an unsightly end!" the mayor called sadly. "But... you came here to witness fights, and fights you will get. The red beast has been injured, but as you can see, he won't be giving up anytime soon. Up next we have someone else from out of town, a young mage girl, if she's still here. After that gruesome battle, I wouldn't be surprised if she-"

"I'm still here!" Uraraka's yell was heard through the stadium, immediately quieting the mayor. Everyone turned to stare at her, including Bakugou. His cheeks flushed as he stared at the woman before him; she held her staff against her chest, her brown eyes glaring with determination. "And I won't need to kill the dragon to defeat him! Clear a path!" she demanded, watching people on the benches in front of her slowly move to the side as she walked forward.

Her aura was insanely powerful, the gravity of it hitting Bakugou in the chest. Silently he wondered if she even needed him, with the level of intensity in her eyes, she could probably get Kirishima to listen on his own.

"Bakugou," she said, turning around, her hair swinging across her face. "Let's go."

He bit his lip, his teeth trembling. She didn't need to order him the fuck around, but he wasn't about to argue. Not right now. He stood up and followed her, walking down past the crowd, keeping his gaze down.

"Not going to kill him?" The mayor began to laugh loudly, the crowd quickly joining in, but Uraraka's resolve did not sway. Bakugou watched her gait fill with more confidence as they laughed at her.

She was more than human.

She was a strong, powerful mage, and nothing was going to stop her.

"That's right!" she yelled over the laughter. "While all of you are hoping to hurt this creature," she said, tapping each foot with her staff. She gently floated down into the arena, her feet landing on the dirt. "I'm going to show there's no need for that. I... am dragon tamer and I'm going to prove it right now."

Following after Uraraka, Bakugou hopped down into the dirt, standing directly next to her.

"Oh? And how do you plan to prove that!?" The mayor roared with laughter yet again.

"With my dragon right here," she said, gesturing to Bakugou.

"Yours?" Bakugou hissed, narrowing his red eyes at her.

"Just... deal with it!" she grumbled under her breath.

The crowd began to murmur, confusion spreading across the large group of people.

"I'm sorry dear, but I think you are sorely mistaken! For that is not a dragon," he snorted. "That's a person!"

"Oh really?" she smirked and Bakugou immediately lowered his hood. His golden scales shone in the sunlight, his elongated pointed ears glistening against the rays of the morning beams. More murmurs spread through the crowd, especially from those close to the front who could actually see.

As soon as the hood came off, Kirishima let out a roar, raising his feet up to stomp them to the ground. The chains rattled against his wings, and Bakugou met his eyes. He nodded once, hoping his idiot friend wasn't actually worried about him; he could tell Kirishima wanted him to leave.

Uraraka turned to Bakugou. "Are you ready?" she whispered, stepping forward to place her hand on his chest.

"Mmm... Guess I fucking have to be," he smirked.

She let her fingers fan out over his heart, pretending as if she was the one to control his transformation. "I'm sorry..." she whispered, her brown eyes filled with concern.

"Quit worrying, Cheeks. We got this."

His chest felt warm, a gentle hum trickling under his skin. He stared at her for a moment. Was she transferring magic to him? It was faint, but he could feel her magical current pulsing towards his heart. He blushed, and wrapped his fingers around her wrist. "Stand back..." he muttered.

Stepping away from her, he released his tight hold on his magic, his body trembling with the release. His chest lurched forward, wings immediately sprouting from his back. He cried out, the bones and muscles under his skin cracking as he fell to the ground, pressing his palms flat against the earth. Claws curled out from his fingertips, scraping against the ground. He roared again, his jaw elongating and pushing forward.

He was used to the transformation by now. After almost 19 years, he would have to be. It hurt, but Bakugou was mostly numb to the pain. He was used to his spine stretching as his golden tail sprouted behind him. He was used to his arms and legs, changing his body and growing rapidly.

He stood, the transformation complete, and he stared at Kirishima.

'Idiot. What the hell do you think you're doing getting yourself captured?!' he hissed, sending the mental thoughts to Kirishima. Smoke huffed from the tip of his nose and all around him, and he became acutely aware of the audience’s screams.

'Bakugou! What are YOU doing here?!' he said, his voice panicked.

A rush of relief washed over Bakugou, happy Kirishima could understand his spoken thoughts. He hadn't lost himself completely to the beast.

 'Fucking hell. I came for you. We have to go back.'

Kirishima fluttered his wings pathetically. 'I-I can't!' he stammered. 'I can't change back!'

 'I had a feeling...'

"As you can see," Uraraka began, and Bakguou's gaze snapped down to her. Right. He was supposed to be fucking listening to her or whatever... "This is my dragon, and he obeys my commands."

Obeys?! She was really fucking milking this for all it was worth, wasn't she?

He huffed again, smoke puffing out of his nostrils.

'Who is this girl? What are you doing? Are you really under her control!?' Kirishima asked, rushing through a list of questions.

 'Of course not dumb ass! She's helping me rescue your stupid face! If you listen to her, we can probably get you out!'

 'So you want me to play along?'

'Yeah just... fucking listen to her for now.' Bakugou nodded, leaning his head down to her.

 'I'm surprised you're being so submissive!'

 'Shut the fuck up!'

"How can you prove that he won't attack you?" the mayor called out and Bakugou turned his head, huffing out a breath of smoke.

"Clearly, he's not attacking me or anyone right now!" she laughed and gently pressed her hand up against his snout. With a grunt, he nuzzled her.

"Can you control when he attacks?" There was something about the mayor's voice; it trembled with a deep fear, and that made Bakugou smirk with pride.

"Yes. Bakugou... fire!" she cried out.

The hell!? She wanted him to use that much magic!? He let out a growl and stood up, shooting flames into the arena. They fell against the dirt and flickered before Bakugou stepped on them with his large foot to put it out. The last thing he needed was them thinking they were hostile.

"You are... quite powerful... young lady," the mayor said, and Bakugou turned to face him. A dark look came over his eyes. Something wasn’t right. Bakugou could tell this man wasn’t going to listen to Uraraka in the way she hoped. He immediately stepped in front of her, hoping to stop any attacks that came her way. "ELEMENTAL GUARDS!" the mayor yelled, pointing directly at Bakugou.

Uraraka gasped, clutching her staff to her chest and she turned her head just in time to hear more members of the audience scream as Todoroki held his hand out, making an ice slide down to the arena.

"T-Todoroki!" she yelled, now standing next to him as he landed in the arena next to her.

"We have to get out of here. Now."

"But... we can't leave Kirishima!"

Bakugou was quick to spread his wings, puffing out smoke as he spat a ring of fire around them, blockading them from the charging guards.

"If they have water elementals, this isn't going to last very long," Todoroki murmured, rushing towards Kirishima. "We might be able to cut through the chains with my ice. Do you have any offensive spells?" he asked.

"No..." she muttered. "Only healing magic!" she gasped, shaking her head. "I don't know what to do!"

"We'll try ice. If we can at least break the ones on his wings we can get him out of here."

"How?" she said. "The arena is covered!"

"I know..." he muttered, glancing around. "Let's at least get the chains off and then we can try and find an escape route."

As the two approached, Kirishima bucked backwards, tossing his legs into the air and shaking his head, the chains rattling against his back.

'They're gonna fucking help you, moron!' Bakugou huffed. He turned his head towards the sky. He could possibly break the structure if he slammed his back against the large metal beams covering the surface.

Pressing his feet close to the ground, he launched himself into the air, the wind from his wings pushing the fire out and causing the guards to fall backwards. Idiots. Did they really think they could beat his fire?

"WAVE!" One of the guards called out, a giant rush of water pushing towards the flames.

Fucking shitty humans and their shitty magic!

Bakugou pushed his back against the metal, crying out loudly when he hit against the bars. It hurt, but it certainly made a dent. If they could get the chains off of Kirishima's wings, the two of them could probably do it together.

As they ran close to Kirishima, Uraraka held her staff out. "I'll get us higher!" she breathed. She never used her gravity magic on two people before, but desperate times called for desperate measures.

"FLOAT!" she cried out, tapping both of Todoroki's feet. He began to rise, his hair floating upwards. "F-FLOAT!" she called out once more, tapping her own two feet. She reached for Todoroki's hand, pushing herself off of the ground, she flung them up with momentum, the two of them landing on Kirishima's wing.

"Are you okay, Uraraka?" Todoroki asked, looking at her with concern.

"F-Fine," she gasped, kneeling on Kirishima's wing.

He nodded, knowing they didn't stand a chance if they kept wasting time. "Freeze!" he cried out and ice wrapped around Kirishima's wing, the cold substance covering his red, scaly skin.

"WAVE!" More guards were arriving, waves of water covering the flames Bakugou kept attempting to replenish. Uraraka glanced up, watching Bakugou push against the metal beams. He looked exhausted, and she was worried he was using too much of his magic. Either way, she supposed him overworking himself a little was better than them all dying.

The red dragon cried out and began to flap his wing, the ice starting to crack against the metal, the chains about the snap. Todoroki leaped forward, landing directly on Kirishima's back. He held his hand out, casting the spell to wrap the ice around his other wing.

The dragon rolled his back, shaking out as his entire body shivered, bucking underneath the smaller humans.

"FREEZE!" Guards called out, shooting ice in the direction of Kirishima.

"Todoroki!" Uraraka cried, gesturing towards the ice headed directly towards them.

He whipped his body around, holding his other hand out as he felt the chains heat up against his hand. "FIRE!" he yelled, shooting flames from the jewels against his palm, the flames melting the ice it immediately came into contact with.

"Uraraka!" Todoroki cried out, holding his other hand out to her. "We have to hold on."

"R-Right," she cried out, jumping forward to take his hand. She clung to him hard as Kirishima's wings spread, breaking the frozen ice.

Todoroki lunged forward, grabbing at one of the chains around his neck as he clung to Uraraka hard. "Hold on," he muttered.

"Got it," she gasped as Kirishima pushed into the air.

The two dragons nodded to each other, slamming their backs against the metal bars. Bakugou huffed, shooting flames down at the guards in front of him. The dragon's fire was far more overpowering than Todoroki's, and any ice that shot their way was far too small and not high enough to reach them.

With another slam, the bars bent upwards, leaving enough space for them to escape, dashing into the air.

Uraraka clung to Todoroki, the wind whipping against her cheeks as she slammed her eyes shut, hoping they would land somewhere far, far away from any other villages or towns.

~~

It took about an hour of flying to get anywhere away from civilization. They flew over towns and villages and Ochako was certain rumors would be flying now.

As they made their way towards the mountains, Bakugou nodded his head towards a large cave on the side, flying down towards it, landing against the large ledge.

Kirishima followed closely behind and when he pressed his feet to the ground, he bowed his head down, allowing Ochako and Todoroki to slip down to the ground.

Her brown hair fluttered about her face and Todoroki's looked as it had been slicked back, the force of the wind was so strong high in the sky.

"I-I can't believe we made it..." Ochako whispered, her hands trembling against her staff.

"Same..." Todoroki muttered and quickly turned around towards Kirishima. "I could probably freeze the muzzle off in the same way if you don't mind your mouth being cold."

Kirishima's ears perked up and he leaned down, crouching close the ground. Holding his palm out, Todoroki breathed the word out and ice curled around Kirishima's snout, freezing the chains. "Give it a moment and you should be able to break them with your jaw."

Ochako turned towards Bakugou, wondering if he would be able to change back. "Are you okay?" she asked, stepping towards him.

He growled, turning his head away from her for a moment.

"I-It's okay..." she whispered. "If you can't-"

He let out another growl, his body lurching forward as he began to shrink back to his human form. Immediately, he fell to his knees, his chest heaving, coughs slipping between his lips.

"B-Bakugou!" she gasped, running to him. Scales littered his face once again, his long ears twitching as he tried to catch his breath. "You're in pain," she said softly.

"I-I'm... I'm fucking fine!" he snapped, his body almost completely back to normal minus the scales on his face, his ears and his dragon wings. "Fuck..." he growled.

"Please..." she begged. "Please let me help you."

"You can't!" he hissed, feebly attempting to pull away from her. "You can't fucking give me magic, so what the hell do you plan on doing!?"

"Maybe if I heal you, you can pull your wings back... at the very least."

His wings fluttered behind him, his face wincing. They looked heavy against his body, and his panting grew heavier. "Fuck. Do... whatever you want. It's not going to work!"

"I-It might," she whispered, pressing her hand to his chest. Her hand felt heated, the small hum of magic returning under her palm. She pressed her staff over his heart, and shut her eyes. "Cure," she whispered, her palm feeling hot.

"Ngh..." he grunted, his head dropping back. He winced, his back arching as his wings slowly began to fold back towards his body. The large bruises on his back slowly disappeared, and the searing pain in his chest, back, and neck dissipated as well.

This woman... had far more magical ability than she let on. How could such a small body hold so much power? He didn't underestimate her, never had, and definitely never would. Watching her walk into the arena with such confidence earlier was hard to ignore... and even now, watching her be so certain about what her power could do. It was something she never tried, and yet she was so confident she could help his transformation.

And she was right apparently.

Ochako swallowed, her brown eyes turning up towards him. "T-There..." she whispered. Her hand pressed against his chest as she tried to push back. Her arm trembled and her breathing grew heavy. "I'm glad you could... s-shift just... a little more..."

"Oi! What did you do?" Bakugou growled.

"I-I healed you..." she said.

"You used too much magic, didn't you!?" Snapping at her, he shook her shoulders in an attempt to keep her awake. But her eyes fluttered shut, and her head rolled forward. "Uraraka!" Bakugou yelled as she slumped against him, completely passed out.

"Oi! Half and Half!" Bakugou yelled. "Somethin's wrong with Cheeks!"

Todoroki glanced away from Kirishima, closing his palm. The ice was settling around the muzzle and he nodded, letting the dragon wait. He pushed up, walking over to Bakugou, his eyes widening when he saw her face pressed against Bakugou's chest. "What happened?"

"I don't fucking know!" Bakugou yelled. "She started healing me to help me shift back and then she fuckin' just... passed out!"

"She overused her magic," Todoroki muttered.

"I don't understand how the hell that's even possible, since you idiots don't use magic through your fucking bodies!"

"Well... not exactly. The source of magic doesn't come from our bodies, no, but the magical current flows through us when we activate the items we use. So technically it does use her energy."

"...I did feel an odd hum against her hand when she used her goddamn magic. I told her she didn't have to!" he growled, holding her in his arms.

"Ah... A weird hum?" he asked.

"Yeah, when she had her hand on my chest," Bakugou snapped, his gaze fixated on the girl in front of him.

"Hm..." Todoroki tapped his chin, looking at the two of them. It was odd... something like that shouldn't have come from her hand, but her staff rather. "I'll get a fire started," he said, backing away. "Let her rest, her energy will replenish and she will wake up.

"Yeah, yeah..." Bakugou muttered, his hand touching her brown hair.

He cared about her far more than he let on. Even after the fire started, it took Bakugou a moment to lay her down, covering her with his cloak.

"Watch her," he demanded, pointing to Todoroki.

"I will, you have nothing to worry about. She just needs sleep," he explained.

"Whatever..." he grumbled, heading away from the fire and out onto the ledge. "Let's go, Kirishima."

With the muzzle having been frozen off, Kirishima only had a chain around his neck, his body able to move as freely as possible. He turned his head towards the two humans, and glanced back at Bakugou who was traipsing towards the edge of the cave. He plopped down on the edge, dangling his legs over the side.

Kirishima followed, laying down next to him, curling his tail to the side.

"We have to leave," Bakugou said.

'So fast? You're going to miss that human girl!' Kirishima's tone was taunting, and his head moved up and down with his laughter.

"Shut it!" he growled. "I'm not going to fucking miss her. We have bigger problems. You can't change back can you?"

 'No... I thought if I was away from that village I might be able to when things calmed down but... I can't.'

"Fucking... dammit!" he hissed, slamming his fist against the stone ground. "Humans... aren't stealing our magic. They can't even use it on their own."

'What!?' Kirishima lifted his head, glancing back at the two human mages inside the cave.

"Yeah. They need a fucking... I dunno... magical object or some bullshit!" He gestured back towards them. "That's why Half and Half has those weird hand things and Cheeks has the staff," he said.

 'How... did you meet them exactly?'

Bakugou rubbed his forehead. "Look my magic isn't doing great either and I got captured in a village... but Cheeks has some kind of dragon fetish so she rescued me. It got her banished from her town and we went to the city to find Half and Half, another dragon fanatic. He heard rumors of you and I came to fucking get you. The end. Now we have to go home, we don't have time to dick around here worrying about humans."

 'Wait... you got her banished from her town and you're just... gonna ditch her!? She saved you, dude!'

"What the hell else am I supposed to do?" he growled. "I'm done hanging out with humans and we're not any closer to solving this damn problem!"

 'Take them with us.'

"To the island!? Yeah right," Bakugou huffed. "There's no way I'm doing that. We'll wait for her to wake up and then we're leaving."

 'You're really okay with just leaving her behind?'

"Yeah. I already fuckin' told you. I'm done here."

 'You're an idiot. As always.'

"Shut it, Red Scales!"

For a moment he glanced behind himself, seeing her small form lying on the ground. He couldn't take her with him... not anymore. He'd let her tag along for far too long, and he was finished.

~~

Ochako's body ached and her eyes fluttered open. Pressed against her nose was Bakugou's cloak, the fur tickling her skin. It smelled nice though, sweet comforting. Over the past week, she had grown used to his smell, and took an odd amount of comfort in it.

She pushed herself up, noting the fire seemed to be dimming, the flames flickering out.

"Mornin' Cheeks. Took you long enough to wake up," Bakugou snorted, shaking his head.

"B-Bakugou!" she gasped, turning around to face him. "How long was I out?"

"All of yesterday afternoon and night... It's morning now," Todoroki said stretching up. "You need to be more careful about how you use your magic."

Her gaze flicked down towards her staff. "I know. I just... wanted to help."

Todoroki sighed. "You won't do much help if you drain yourself dead."

"HAH!? You could've DIED!?" Bakugou yelled, standing up.

"Well... technically..." she chuckled awkwardly.

"Fuckin' hell, Uraraka. What the fuck are you thinking?!" He ran his hand through his spiky blond locks, his face twitching with anger.

She frowned, turning to stand up, glaring at the golden dragon. "I didn't want you to suffer! You were in pain!"

"I would've been fuckin' fine. Nothing to kill yourself over!" he snapped. "Fuck. You're so fucking reckless, it's a good thing we're leaving soon so you can go be normal somewhere."

She froze, her eyebrow furrowing. "Leaving?" she asked.

"Yeah, Kirishima and I are going back to our island. We're not sticking around... here!" he said, gesturing to the cave. "We got shit we gotta figure out."

Ochako glanced down at Todoroki. "But what about us?"

"You'll figure it out together I'm sure."

Todoroki frowned, pushing himself. "So you're just going to leave us here in this cave? Far from any human civilization?"

"We have to leave and we've shown our goddamn dragon forms to enough people!" Bakugou hissed.

"So what's a few more?!" Todoroki snapped back. "We just helped you. Uraraka has given up her life to keep you safe and this is how you're going to treat her?"

"Todoroki..." she whispered.

Kirishima let out a whine, thumping his tail against the ground. He turned towards both mages, a sad look in his eyes.

"What... What are we supposed to do?" Ochako said.

"You can go back to your normal boring human life," he snapped.

"I-I can't!" she yelled. "I can't go home! I'm not allowed, remember?!"

Bakugou rolled his eyes. "That's not my fucking problem. That was your goddamn choice!"

"We all could've died trying to rescue your friend," Todoroki stated bluntly.

"Again, you didn't have to fucking help me!" he snorted.

"So you could've handled that on your own?" Ochako asked. "Excuse me for caring!"

"I didn't ask you to care!" he growled.

"And what do you plan on doing when you get back to your island? You're going to have to change forms to get there! Will you be able to fully transform back?" she scoffed. "The only way you were able to get back to normal was by using my magic!"

Bakugou froze, glaring at the girl. Did she really think he needed her? Yes, she helped him far more than he wanted her to. And he couldn't deny it was her magic that helped him... but...

"Are you really just okay with leaving us behind?" she said softly.

Kirishima snorted, huffing as he swung his body around, sitting next to Todoroki and Uraraka.

"Is this you trying to tell me you're on their side? You want me to bring them back with us? You really think we can just bring two fuckin' humans back with us!?" Bakugou growled, his long ears twitching against his head. "Fucking hell..." He ran his hand through his blond hair again. "No way. We're not bringing them."

His gaze fell upon Uraraka, her eyes filled to the brim with emotion. Her pupils trembled and he couldn't tell if she was angry or sad.

"F-Fine!" she hissed, storming past him before he could speak again. "Maybe I don't even want to go with you!" Her eyes narrowed, glaring at him as she headed towards the edge of the cave.

"Uraraka-" Todoroki called out, raising his hand up after her, but Bakugou was quick to cut him off, realizing what he needed to do.

"Shut it Half and Half! I'll go talk to her."

"Doesn't seem like she wants to talk to you," Todoroki stated, pointing at her as she continued towards the entrance of the cave.

"SHUT IT!" he yelled, and immediately charged after her. "Oi! Cheeks!"

"Leave me alone Bakugou!" she snapped. "Isn't this what you want?! You've been trying to get rid of me this entire time!"

He grabbed her arm and tried to stop her but she immediately yanked it away. "Uraraka," he growled.

"Let me go," she snapped. "I-I don't need you! I don't even want to stay with you!"

He rolled his eyes. What a fucking liar she was.

"You can... you can come with us," he muttered.

"Oh gee, thanks! How kind of you to allow it! Don't do me any favors, Bakugou. I'm finally taking the hint!" she yelled, tears streaming down her cheeks.

As brave and as tough as she was, he knew she really had nowhere to go. Even if she went back with Todoroki, it most likely wouldn't feel like home to her. And though she technically chose to rescue him, it was still his fault she wasn't allowed to go home.

"Oi..." he mumbled, hating how her face looked as she cried. The last thing he wanted to do was make her fuckin' cry. "I... I want you to come..."

"W-What?" she sniffed, wiping her eye on her sleeve.

"I want you to come with us," he said softly.

"Y-You're just saying that!" she yelled. Her round cheeks were blotchy and red from crying, her lip trembling.

"I'm not! I didn't... I didn't ask you to care but you do. If it wasn't for your stupid round cheeks, I'd be fucking dead and so would Kirishima," he growled. "It... would be weird to be without you..." he muttered.

"Y-You would be!" she scoffed, folding her arms over her chest. Why did she look so cute when she was being such an indignant little shit?

"Oi! Don't push it!" he growled. "Just... fucking come okay? It'll be easier this way."

She swallowed and nodded. "Okay..." Sniffing once more, she wiped her eyes again.

"G-Good..." he muttered, his cheeks turning a gentle shade of red, even over his golden scales. "J-Just... will you quit crying now?" he snapped. "It doesn't look good on your face..."

Her pink cheeks grew even pinker, and she smiled. "Sorry, Bakugou."

"Oi, what the hell! Don't apologize! Just don't... don't do it anymore!" he scoffed, gently pushing on her forehead with his finger.

Her lips curled up into a smirk. "Admit it... if you left me behind, you probably would've missed me."

"No, Cheeks. S'got nothing to do with that." Immediately, he turned away from her.

"I bet you would!" she giggled.

"No."

"Yup!"

"Shut it!" he clenched his fists, looking at her cute smile.

"Never!" she teased, leaning towards him. "Not until you admit it."

"Then I'll make you shut up!" he snapped, grabbing her cheeks and pulling their lips together.

She froze, a muffled "Mmph!" slipping from her lips, but after taking a moment to process, she kissed him back. Her mouth pressed against his, her hand curling into a fist against his chest. He nipped at her lower, finally giving her a proper kiss after the horrible lip smash she didn't remember.

"I-I can't believe you just kissed me..." she whispered when he finally pulled back. Her cheeks were flushed, her gaze flicking between his eyes and his lips.

"You did it first," he shrugged, brushing his thumb over her cheek bone.

"What?! No I didn't!" she said, furrowing her brow.

"Yeah," he smirked. "Guess you don’t remember."

"Eh!?!" she gasped, stepping away from him, cupping her hands over her cheeks. "W-When I woke up next to you in the inn...!?"

"Yeah," Bakugou nodded, letting her figure it out.

"I-I kissed you?!"

"You told me you loved me," he smirked.

Her eyes widened, looking as if they were about to pop out of her head. "W-W-WHAT!?!?!"

"Mhm. You said dragons were so cool," he teased .

"...I-I meant dragons! O-Obviously! I love DRAGONS! Not you specifically, but more... by, uh, proxy? Since you're a dragon and all...!" she said, shaking her head back and forth rapidly.

"Sure Round Face," he grinned. "Whatever you say."

"I-I bet I didn't even kiss you and you're just... you're just making it up!" she snorted.

"Nope. Definitely happened. Does it really matter? We just kissed again."

"...It.... it matters!"

"Why?" he snorted, trying to play it as casual as possible. Inside, his heart was throbbing against his chest. "It's just a fuckin' kiss. Look," he grunted and leaned forward and brushed there lips together. "We just did again."

"EH!?" she squeaked, her cheeks still bright red. "It… it would've been my first! Or this one was!" she said.

"Huh... guess I got your first kiss then," he said, shrugging. She stared at his lips again and blushed, backing away. "Let's get going. We can’t stay in this fucking cave all day." He turned away from her, unable to look at how cute her blushing face was.

"H-Hey! You can't just walk away after kissing me!" she yelled.

"I can, and I will," he smirked. "We gotta get going. I don't want to be stuck in this cave forever."

He continued back towards Kirishima and Todoroki, both looking confused at what transpired between the two of them. From deep in the cave, they hadn’t seen what happened between the two.

"We're leaving," Bakugou said. "Get ready to hold on tight, cause Kirishima is going to fly us back."

"All of us?" Todoroki asked, tilting his head.

"Just shut the fuck up and do it.

Kirishima stomped his foot on the ground, narrowing his eyes at Bakugou.

"Oh shut up, you know I can't change. I might not be able to change back if I do!" he scoffed, folding his arms.

"Bakugou!" Uraraka yelled, her voice echoing into the depths of the cave.

"We're leaving Cheeks," he said, grabbing one of the chains around Kirishima's neck as he swung himself onto his back. Todoroki followed his move, climbing onto the red dragon's back. "You comin'?" he asked.

Rolling her eyes, she tapped the bottoms of her feet with her staff. She supposed they would talk about the kiss... or kisses later.

"Fine," she murmured. "Let's go."

Slayer

Fandom: Carmilla

Rating: K+

Genre: Action

Summary: Betty hadn’t actually meant to become a dragon slayer. It had just kind of...happened?

Words: 2,231

AN: So, xenawarriorgay and I watched the Carmilla movie on Halloween, and that reawoke some feels I still had for the series. It’s such a good series and was such a good movie, and that little mention towards the end about Betty’s new career choice just reminded me of my position in the Betty Spielsdorf Protection Squad. It has some slight Lawdorf, but main this is Betty focused. Enjoy! 

And @elizabethhawkes, I hope you gt a kick out of this. 

Disclaimer: I do not own Carmilla. 

She hadn't meant to become a dragon slayer, not really.

Betty had expected she would go into law- the fact that supernatural creatures were real had thrown a wrench into the legal system, among other things. What was a life sentence when the accused could never die? Did normal laws apply to the paranormal? How did the legal system apply to the semi-incorporeal? It was a landmine that needed to be sorted out, and Betty had thought, after her time at Stanford was done, she would be the one to draw the lines. Or she would go into science. In her research on werewolves, she had come across an interesting spell that could theoretically duplicate hearts, making a never ending source for the werefolk that lived off of them. It had been impossible two hundred years ago, but with the scientific advancements of the modern era, and LaFerry Corp's special equipment and funding, Betty had been sure she could take that discovery and change the world. At least make it so fewer murders happened every full moon.

Either way, she had known she would be doing something to help with the supernatural issues that had arisen by the Dean pulling off the wool that had been covering everyone's eyes. And she was one of the best people to do so, given her inside connection to the weird and all. But she hadn't expecting her "help" with the supernatural issue would come in the form of dragon slaying, of all things.

Especially when she had just been trying to find a nice date spot to have a good night with her girlfriend.

It wasn’t often she and Danny had time for each other. Of course, they had “time”- between essays on the rot rates of giant anglerfish gods and research into the legal rights of the technically undead, between final projects and court cases, when the two of them plopped into bed beyond exhausted and fell asleep cuddling before more than half a dozen sentences could be said. They had time, but not the kind Betty, recently, had been craving.

But her finals were done, and Danny’s last case, while not the resounding success she had been hoping for, had still been a win nonetheless. With a full week ahead where neither of them had anything pressing to do, Betty had decided that they would have a picnic dinner and an actual conversation that didn’t involve questions about old sentient library books or blood supplements.

She had left mid-afternoon, a bag carrying her special homemade chicken salad, pink lemonade, and a couple bottles of soy blood slung over her shoulder as she kissed the still sleeping Danny on her cheek, a note on the bedside table for her to find at sunset. She wasn’t sure where the picnic would be- somewhere out in the woods, perhaps by the cliffs, giving them both a nice hike and a bit of privacy from the world at large. Wherever, Danny would find her when she woke up- benefits of a vampire nose, one of the few things they both considered an improvement. No need to worry about losing cell service when your girlfriend could track you from a couple hundred miles away.

So off she had gone, driving first out of the city, almost desperate to get away from humanity for a while. Sure, they were risking wandering into the territory of a playing pixie, or maybe even a demanding fairy, but it was a risk she was willing to take for a little bit of time free from the constant noise. That was one thing she missed about Silas, even if it was the only. But luckily the drive hadn’t taken long, the metropolis falling away behind her, the houses giving way to forests and undergrowth that man had yet to try and claim, and that the smart ones dared not to, lest they risk the wrath of whatever lurked in the shadows.

Not that she had to worry. Between the stench of vampire covering her, her blood still being neigh undrinkable from the brain parasites, and her own knowledge of how to deal with the fair folk, Betty had nothing to worry about. Catching glimpse of a clearing by the side of the road, Betty had pulled off and set out from there, hoping to find a nicer clearing further in, perhaps by a stream, where she could set up camp and wait the last little bit before Danny joined her.

It had overall been peaceful- a couple of wood nymphs, peering out from between the limbs, their faces curious as to why such a pretty young thing like her would brave the woods alone. For a moment she had thought she had heard a pan flute, but instead of investigating (she wasn’t Hollis) she had instead altered her course, steering clear. Best outcome from something like that, she would get to see some of the fae dance, a sight she would be allowed since none of them considered her fully human, not any more. Worse, she would stumble upon a spirit that would make her play, and, if she failed, make her pay.

Not something she wanted to deal with, not on her day off.

She had eventually found it- a lovely clearing, not near a stream but a pond instead, the water crisp and clear and completely void of naiads, everything kept fresh by a nearby waterfall that tumbled down from high cliffs. It had been supposed to be a new moon, and whether they stayed in the clearing or Danny carried her to the top of the cliff, either way they would have had a beautiful view, especially if the sky had remained clear.  

It was the perfect romantic spot, one Betty had quickly claimed as her own. Burning sage to drive out any spirits that might be haunting it, taping temporary wards to the trees surrounding the edge so nothing could intrude upon them, even scattering a small bag of dried beans in a corner to catch any of the mathematically inclined supernatural things should one of them appear. Betty had come ready and prepared, determined to have her night with Danny.

She had just finished, the sun had been just about to set, when she had heard the rumble.

At first she had thought it the waterfall- it was similar in sound, just slightly deeper, slightly more menacing. Perhaps a surge up above, some melted snow finally making its way down to her little pond, increasing the volume of the waterfall’s road that much more. At first, Betty, after a careful moment’s stare into the forest around her, had shrugged it off.

Until she had heard it again. Louder, this time, and coming from right behind her.

Betty had learned her lesson from Silas- never go anywhere unarmed. It was a lesson she had learned well, and while she had left her heavy artillery at home, Betty had slid the blessed forearm length knife from its holder on her hip with a practiced ease and turned to face whatever stood behind her, her feet planted, teeth bared, ready to tell whatever it was to back off or prepare-

Prepare to turn her into a shish kabob, the Betty had been expecting something small and generally harmless, like most of the forest paranormal creatures were. She hadn’t been expecting to come face to face with a scaled, clawed foot, a single talon the size of her leg, and a giant blue fanged face smiling wickedly down at her from almost twenty feet in the air.

Another lesson Betty had learned from Silas- don’t wait to be the victim. So when the dragon’s mouth had parted, a slight flicker of something showing between its teeth, she hadn’t hesitated.

Instead, Betty had darted forward and stabbed her dagger right between the crack in the dragon’s scales, drawing blood and an angry roar that had shaken the forest as the dragon jerked back, taking her dagger with it. Clawing at its chest, its own talons doing more harm than good as it tried to pry loose the blade, the dragon had lost sight of Betty as she rolled towards her bag, her ears still ringing as she tried to fight through the panic and find anything that could save her. It was still a while before sunset, and even if Danny had been awake and on her way, she was only so fast and there was only so much even she could do against a dragon.

Her fear kicking up a notch at the pained but triumphant cry, followed by the sound of her dagger clattering to the rocks that lined the pond’s edge, Betty had grabbed the first hard thing her hand touched, turned, and thrown it at the dragon, right at its face.  As if to taunt her, to show her just how useless her attempts at surviving were, the dragon had snatched the container of homemade chicken salad right out of the air, its teeth crunching through the plastic, the dragon swallowing what should have been her lunch without a second thought.

Almost laughing, the dragon had continued to advance, its smile wide, drool dripping from its jowls, ready to rip her to shreds, to feast upon her flesh and add her name to its long list of victims.

Only for both of them to discover, in that moment, that water dragons were, in fact, incredibly allergic to birds.

She had cut off its head after it had stopped twitching- she wasn’t going to take that chance, not if it could just be in a coma and come after her later. So she had retrieved her knife and cut through the giant mass of muscle, sinew, and bone, dragging the head (almost larger than herself) a dozen feet away when she was done to make sure the deed was done. Thus covered in blood not her own and smelling worse than she had in a long time, Betty had gathered up her things and left, the very idea of a picnic something beyond comprehension of her beyond exhausted mind.

Only to be stopped by a group of fairies as they tried to crown her their new queen of the forest.

The dragon had been a terror, one of the fairies had explained to her and Danny (who had finally shown up late with Starbucks, a confused and almost scared look on her face as she took in Betty’s blood soaked clothes and the fairies forcefully trying to braid marigold into her hair). A fearsome creature that took pleasure in causing pain, more often than not torturing its food before it ate. In the four hundred years since it had moved into the giant cavern that existed behind the waterfall, it had decimated the magical population, leaving only a few of each species left to amuse it and keep it fed when it began to hunger.

By killing the dragon, Betty had done everyone in the forest a great favor, thus earning their unending gratitude and all the dragon’s hoard as her own.

A hoard that had been filled with silver and gold, sapphires and pearls and every gem that was reminiscent of the ocean, even piles of sea glass the finishing touch. It didn’t match Carmilla’s fortune, no- she had the wealth of millennia, hoarded by the Dean and left to Mattie in the “will” that had shown up after the Dean’s death, which had then passed on to her youngest child since Mattie was dead. But it had been more than enough, if the two of them had wanted to settle down, to finance all of kickstarter twice over and still never want for more.

Both of them carrying as much as they could, with plans to come back and get the rest later, they had left the clearing, Betty sure that that would be the end of that.

Until, two weeks later, just as she was finally getting the last of the dragon blood’s stain off her skin, an alicorn showed up on her roof, a message begging for help from the ‘Great Dragon Slayer’ tied to its horn. Because, apparently, fae liked to talk, and word had quickly spread.

Danny had protested, of course (“Why risk yourself running into a battle that could get you killed?”), but Betty, just like she always did when Danny when into protect mode, had ignored her. Had just gathered together a handful of weapons, gotten a packet of frozen fish from the freezer (water dragons were allergic to birds, the odds of a fire dragon being allergic to fish seemed quite high), and jumped onto her ride, Danny only just joining her in time on the alicorn’s back.

Because she couldn’t just leave them. As much as she hated to admit it, Laura and Danny and even Carmilla’s hero complex had rubbed off on her a bit, and if she could help? She had to.

She hadn’t meant to become a dragon slyer. Betty had thought she would change the world through her knowledge of the law or some scientific breakthrough. But apparently the world had had other plans, and those included her buying a sweet sword to chop off heads with and a cooler bag filled with whatever allergen would take out what was trying to kill her next.

Champ-line Shenanigans Part 1

Incoming Call! Please hold!  Please adjust your audio!

Call Participants include:  Sterlingsilverchampion - Steven Stone @sterlingsilverchampion MasterSenpai - Lance @fabulance Kawaii motherfucker - Cynthia @shironax

Call Connected! 

sterlingsilverchampion

"Hello? Is this thing working?"

MasterSenpai

"Hello, yes. Mr. Stone. You ordered how many Pizzas to be delievered to yoir office? 30? That will come to 550,000P plus tax."

Kawaii motherfucker

"Pizza???? Oh please tell me you got my garlic finger order too. I know it's the other side of the world, but still."

sterlingsilverchampion

"Don't scare me like that, that happened to me once before! ... Garlic finger order? Isn't that a Unovan thing?"

Kawaii motherfucker

"Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm it iiiiissssssss.... I've been stuck in here so long I can't even go to Unova, gotta bring it to me. It's a shame ice cream melts."

MasterSenpai

"It does sound rather tasty! Bring us some Steven. You can pay to have sent to us before it get's cold, right?"

sterlingsilverchampion

"You really think that they would get there in time? They would have to fly on an Aerodactyl to do that, and where would they land? What if they served pizza and ice cream, which would melt or get cold first?"

Kawaii motherfucker

"Well put one of your never melt ice things with the ice cream! Duh. Have a fire type hold the pizza while Aeordactyl flies on over. It'll work!"

MasterSenpai

"I mean I have a Charizard and she has a Glaceon. Come on Steven, keep up! Also can't you just have your fancy devon tech teleport the pizza to us or have Metagross teleport it us and come back?"

sterlingsilverchampion

"Well I could just get Claydol to trick a flame orb under your pizza and Tourlamine to lightly powder snow the ice cream. What do you think?"

Kawaii motherfucker

"Perfect!!! Shall we expect it within the hour?"

sterlingsilverchampion

"How badly do you both want it?"

Kawaii motherfucker

"..... Very."

MasterSenpai

"I'm close to just sending my Dragonite to get pizza, Steven. This is taking forever! We'll be starved by time they finally make the pizza, let alone deliever it."

sterlingsilverchampion

"You poor things. Fine, i'll take care of you all. I'm ordering it online as we speak and it will be there for both of you in a small bit. Hold onto your appetites until it gets there!"

Kawaii motherfucker

"Oohhh ordering online- I never thought of that! Thank you so much, Mr. Stone. ;p"

MasterSenpai

"I-I don't think I can make it. Cynthia, I'm leaving my Haxorus to you if I die from starvation before the pizza gets here. Steven gets Tyrantrum."

Kawaii motherfucker

".......... You know how many dragon eggs I'll have with Garchomp and your Haxorus??"

MasterSenpai

"You'd be blessed with many Gibles, Dragon Granny."

Kawaii motherfucker

"WHO'S A GRANNY"

MasterSenpai

"Who's asking?"

Kawaii motherfucker

"I AM YOUNG THANK YOU"

MasterSenpai

"Thank me how? Does it involve cool artifacts or will be a demonstration on how youthful you are, Cynthia?" You could hear Lance fighting back a couple snickers among the sound of shuffling papers.

Kawaii motherfucker

"-- How can I prove my youth with artifacts? What- I'll show you my Everstone? Of course I'll show it." Loud grumbling in her background, along with keyboard typing.(edited)

sterlingsilverchampion

He comes back and blinks for a moment. "I can't leave you two without hearing playful bickering. What did I miss this time, and what Everstone are you talking about?"

MasterSenpai

"Naturally you come back when a stone is mentioned, Steven." He chuckles. "You'll have to feed us pizza to get the details on the Everstone, Stone."

Kawaii motherfucker

"-- The Everstone that apparently keeps me so young. Lance here called me a Grandma!" More grumbling in the background, Cynthia casually looking herself over in great detail in a mirror.

sterlingsilverchampion

There's a pause and then a chuckle when he moves away to drag a couple rock samples across his desk. "You look fine, Cynthia. Besides, is that your secret to staying youthful, Lance? Pizza? Also it should be on the way now that I think about it."(edited)

Kawaii motherfucker

A little more pleased noises came from her end, then resuming keyboard taps to signal her getting back to work. "Thank you, Steven. At least someone think I look nice. .... And I hope. You guys can probably hear my stomach growling through this thing."

MasterSenpai

"Oh, come now, Cynthia! You'd make a hot grandma if your Garchomp had a bunch of Gibles running around! Also good, cause I can't hear your stomach over mind growling."

Kawaii motherfucker

"... Hot Grandma. Please- calling me a milf now will only make the fans worse." Grumbles under her breath. That would be too spooky for her.April 9, 2017

sterlingsilverchampion

"Baby Pokemon? Lance, you're going to make all of us turn into grandparents at this rate." Cue the Tyrunt squealing in the background. "You have to admit though, they're great company. Now I'm not sure with a bunch of gible, since I assume they teeth as much as an Aron."

MasterSenpai

"They do learn how to bite everything rather early on in their development. Also be proud! You'd both make hot grandparents. Trust me."

Kawaii motherfucker

"Gible bite everything. I swear, just after raising one, I had to replace every piece of furniture I own. Along with all the scars I have no of them chewing on me. Baby Gible may just be the worst."

sterlingsilverchampion

"Does that make you a hot grandparent too, Lance? You do seem to have a lot of baby dragons running around." Pauses at what Cynthia said. "At least they didn't end up eating your fridge. That happened to me when I first found my Aron." Chuckles to himself and keeps on working. "It was expensive too, so my father wasn't too proud about that."

MasterSenpai

"Granddaddy Lancey. I'm amazed it hasn't become a thing yet. Also feel free to leave all the biting baby dragons with me for a week. I'm a pro at dealing with younglings that want to explore and bite everything."

Kawaii motherfucker

"... Grandaddy Lance- I've heard of Daddy Lance on the Pokeweb, but that's about all. I wouldn't want to be a sexual grandparent. Seems a little... weird. But you can definitely have the munching Ginles. I want em back as Gabite though. That's when thew rocks."

sterlingsilverchampion

"..." He wrinkles his nose. "I'll never look or hear that word the same way again. People have such odd kinks interests- oh, your food should be there for the both of you, by the way. You might want to have your pokemon answer the door unless you want that food getting stale by the minute."

MasterSenpai

All they hear are dragons roaring and the high pitched squealing of a man. "HAXORUS NO! Goodra put him down! DRAGONITE SHARE!" You then hear more roaring and Lance yelling in the background.

Kawaii motherfucker

Cynthia's not even there anymore to hear that beautiful chaos, there was a smash as her chair hit the back wall when she stood up, and loud thumps going down some stairs, then silence. She went to get the pizza. Meanwhile, baby Noibat was left behind, and invaded the thing that had voices coming from it. "Noooooooooooi."

sterlingsilverchampion

Steven just... blinked and sat there in his seat with papers in his hand. What just happened? He opened his mouth to speak- then closed it. "...Wow, Maybe I should've given them a heads up earlier." Well, at least the Noibat kept him company while everyone else was either making a lot of noise in the background or currently away from their devices. "I hope no one broke any legs."

MasterSenpai

"KOMMO-O! NO. NO BREAK BREAKING THE PIZZA MAN BECAUSE HE SMELLS LIKE FAERIES! DOWN!" You hear more dragon roars, screaming and eventually everything becomes eerily quiet on Lance's end.

Kawaii motherfucker

"Nooiii- Noiba!" There's some tapping on Cynthia's side, a wing flapping against the mic confusingly. Cynthia MIA.

sterlingsilverchampion

He quietly shuffles in his seat and clears his throat awkwardly. "Noibat, go make sure Cynthia didn't trip down the stairs." He asks through the mic before sitting there, completely baffled. "...Did I just witness a murder scene through an audio program?"

MasterSenpai

"Dra?" You hear a confused Dratini on Lance's side of the call, before hearing someone plop down in a chair and placing a box down near the phone. "Dra!" You can hear faint chewing and happy dragon noises.

Kawaii motherfucker

"Nooooii!" Noibat heard that, and bravely dove from the desk to go off and search. It may have taken a minute or two, but there was activity on her mix again in a bit; Cynthia now sitting back at her desk, eating while chewing. "Mm- phowwy. Waf gettim a dwink."

sterlingsilverchampion

"..." All he's hearing right now is chewing so he slowly lowers the volume on the sound before continuing on working. "I hope that pizza was worth the wait." He chuckles, shaking his head before shuffling through papers. "Just keep your chewing to a minimum, i'm starting to get goosebumps."

MasterSenpai

"Better than wetting yourself by having hungry dragons answering the door." The sound of happy Dratini noises overwhelmed the sound of chewing on Lance's end.

Kawaii motherfucker

Cynthia started munching with her mouth shut now, as happy Noibat noises come from her end as he nibbled on pizza as well. "Mmmm Steven, you didn't get any? It's delicious."

sterlingsilverchampion

"I swear, i'll have to order from another place next time because that pizza guy is going to be scared out of his wits from those dragons of yours." He shakes his head, resisting a grin as he signs off another document and huffs to himself. "I'm not hungry right now, but thank you Cynthia. Besides, pizza grease is the last thing I need on my desk. That, and I would have to return Tyrunt to his ball if I was going to have to order anything and he gets cranky when I do that."

MasterSenpai

"...no. We're not having you pass out from hunger at your desk, Steven. One of us can and possibly will come down there, bust into your office and force feed you pizza with our mouths if you resist. You're already skinny, you don't want to have just strong chest muscles and starved everything else as  body-type."

Kawaii motherfucker

"Hold on- I got this Lance." A few ruffling and shuffling noises were heard, then a pop, and a little affectionate growl from a Pokemon. Muffling commands were given and the Pokemom took off like a jetplane into the sky. "I'd open your window, Steven. Or it'll get broken down."

sterlingsilverchampion

He blinks, taken aback for a moment before finally focusing in on what the two were saying. "I can't really coo-" Wait, open his window? The sound of a chair rolls back and a couple footsteps echo before a window could be heard being rolled up. "Cynthia..." Steven called over to the device as he looks out the window worriedly. "...What am I to expect?" He took a few steps back from the window too, just for good measure. "You didn't send your Garchomp out did you?!"

Kawaii motherfucker

"I-... No." Little whistle from Cynthia, meanwhile her little air delivery gift arrived. Garchomp swung into the open window left for her, holding a single slice of pizza to present to the Hoenn champion. A serious depth in those eyes- he better accept her gracious gooey gift. "Eat up, Stone.~"

sterlingsilverchampion

"...Cynthia, you didn't..." Well, now there's a Garchomp in his room and she looks like she could tear him to pieces if he declined the request. "Uh... How do you approach a Garchomp without getting bitten again?"

Kawaii motherfucker

"Oohhh- uhm... Calmly? She's pretty friendly. Just make sure you accept her gracious lil' gift there.~" Cynthia had a hand over her mouth, trying to hide her snickering.

sterlingsilverchampion

He stares at the Garchomp for a moment before very carefully holding out his hands for the slice of Pizza. "Uh... That's a good Garchomp... it's alright, I won't do anything rash-" ...Suddenly the audio is full of crashes and sudden aggressive growling. "...Cyn...La... Is try....to fe...me!" ...The audio is shaky and the only thing to be heard is a curious Tyrunt noise.

MasterSenpai

"Tyrunt. Watch. This isnone way you assert your dominance when you get bigger." Lance instructed over the phone, snickering bewteen pizza bites.

sterlingsilverchampion

"Ruuuunt~?" Tyrunt growls approvingly before suddenly another thrashing sound is heard, then the scraping of scales. Fumbling is heard over the microphone before finally! "...Ugh, it got pizza all over my shirt. Cynthia, your dragon was trying to feed me." A sigh, then he carefully gets up to get a plate to put the almost cheese-less pizza on it before returning to his seat. "Lance, don't think I didn't hear you either, you're teaching Tyrunt bad manners aren't you?”

Kawaii motherfucker

Cynthia cackles.

Dragon’s Roar

From Gallows To Fire

Everything was black and empty. A mental void surrounded her. It shrouded her thoughts like a thick impassable mist swirling around her. She felt alone in that moment, alone and scared. There was something in that darkness. A faint sound echoed from beyond. Was it a voice? "Hello?" She called. She thought she heard the voices respond. It was still weak but she knew it was more than one, they were mostly feminine. "Who's there?" She waited but the voices were cut off by a ear splitting roar. "Hello? Are you-?!" She tried to run into the darkness, only to see a large pair of jaws open wide and clamp down on her. She fell to the hard earth with a thud and it dragged her into the emptiness.

Her emerald green eyes shot open and her head jerked up to the dreary sky. She pulled her head down, ignoring the pain and took in the scenery around her. Pine trees, bushes, and mountain flowers crowded at the edge of the dirt path. The cart she was riding on creaked and swayed as it climbed over the small rocks. She looked down at her large paws to see strong bindings holding them together. She examined her dress that was now stripped of any valuables. It didn't look anything like their armor. She tried to think about why she was with them but her mind was a blank slate. She couldn't remember anything. "Hey, you're finally awake?" She looked up at the man who spoke. He was a breed of human with long hair and full beard. "You were caught trying to cross the border. Walked right into the imperial ambush same as us and that thief over there." "Damn you Stormcloaks... Skyrim was fine until you came along! Empire was nice and lazy. If they hadn’t been looking for you I’d have stolen that horse and been halfway to Hammerfell." He glanced at her. "You there, you and me, we shouldn’t be here. It’s these Stormcloaks the Empire wants. She raised a brow at him, wondering to herself what he was hoping she'd do. Rebel or not he was still a thief heading to a damp cell. Her cooperation wasn't going to change that. "We're all brothers and sisters in binds now." The Nord answered. She didn't like that statement. The tone in his voice sounded grave. "Shut up back there!" "So what's wrong with him?" The thief motioned at the man next to her. A man with a gag shoved in his mouth. His armor was more impressive than the others and his face agitated by the question. She paid no mind to the man as he responded in an offended tone. The wind rustled her golden splotched black fur. She looked ahead and observed the stone wall in the distance getting ever so close. The large wooden doors opened as they approached. People crowded around the town gawking at the cart as it pulled by. "Who are they father? Where are they going?" A little boy stood on the porch with his parents, staring curiously at the prisoners. "You need to go inside, little cub." "Why? I want to watch the soldiers!" The child whined. "Inside the house, now." "Yes papa..." The boy was slightly frightened by his father's stern command so he relented and did what he was told. Her attention was pulled away as the horse was forced to a stop. A female elf and male human was now walking up to them. "Get these prisoners out of the cart!" The elf demanded loudly. The man was currently silent holding some sort of paper. "Why are we stopping!?" "Why do you think? End of the line." Everyone got up as the soldiers drew closer. The bear towered over the humans by a head. "Let’s go, we shouldn’t keep the gods waiting for us." She could see the fear in the thief's eyes. It was a strong contrast to the fur wearing men. "No! Wait! We’re not rebels!" "Face your death with some courage, thief." He spat as if he was ashamed to be near such a man. "You’ve got to tell them we weren’t with you! This is a mistake!" "Step towards the block when we call your name, one at a time!" The guard demanded. "The Empire loves their damned lists." The Stormcloak next to her scoffed. "Ulfric Stormcloak, Jarl of Windhelm." The Jarl did as he was told, shooting the imperials a deadly glare as he moved over to the center of town. A stone and bucket waited for their gruesome bounty of heads. Standing next to it was the man and axe ready to deal the final blow. "It has been an honor, Jarl Ulfric" "Ralof of Riverwood." Ralof followed his leader without another word. "Lokir of Rorikstead." "No! I’m not a rebel! You can’t do this!" Lokir ran in a blind panic to the edge of town. "Halt!" Non of the Imperials flinched as he darted off but the elf captain cried out angrily as if to intimidate him. "You’re not going to kill me!" Obviously it didn't work. She couldn't really blame him. There seemed to be a slightly better chance surviving if he ran, as long as he had the stamina for it. She honestly didn't know why she herself was so calm. Perhaps she was with the StormCloaks, but if that were true why did he speak to her like she was a stranger? Why was she so content with this end? "Archers!" The captain pointed at the closest soldier, signaling for him to ready his weapon. He took two more steps before an arrow ripped through the side of his neck. There was loud pained cry as he plopped onto the dirt road. "Anyone else feel like running?" No one dared move, even the townsfolk were still as statues. The dirt was silently dyed a horrible shade of red. "Wait... You there." The Imperials shifted their attention to her. "Step forward." The second command ordered and examined his list as she obeyed. Her shadow crept over him. He looked up with a start just realizing how tall she really was. "Who are you?" "Neda Salmon." She answered without hesitation. "I never thought I'd see a Nanook in Skyrim. You looking for a fight or are you visiting family at the Golden Thread Inn?" She didn't have time to contemplate the revelation as he turned to his comrade. "What do we do Captain? She's not on the list." "Forget the list, put her on the block!" She spat as if Neda had slaughtered a dog in front of her. He seemed saddened by her oddly vindictive remark. "We'll send your remains up river to the sea. Follow the Captain, prisoner." Neda walked over next to  Ralof. She had a full view of the grooved stone stained with the fluid of previous criminals. The headsman's stance shifted from one foot to another. He was growing impatient. Unfortunately the soldier wasn't done yet. He stopped in front of the gagged man and stared him down. "Ulfric Stormcloak. Some here in Helgen call you a hero, but a hero doesn’t use a power like the voice to murder his king and usurp the throne." Ulfric could only growl as a response. "You started this war, flung skyrim into chaos. And now the Empire is going to put you down and restore the peace." What sounded like an eerie rumble of thunder cut his righteous speech short. The sky was clear of any cause as the sun started to part the clouds. "What was that?" "It’s nothing. Carry on." "Yes, General Tullius!" Their tone was softer when they spoke to the approaching priestess. "Give them their last rights." She nodded and held her hands up to the sun. "As we commend your souls to Aetherius, blessings of the 8 divines upon you-" "For the love of Talos, shut up and let's get this over with." A rebel marched up to the block voluntarily. He was greatly annoyed. Neda figured he didn't want to postpone the inevitable or perhaps he didn't want the last rights of a religion he didn't believe in? She hesitated as she dropped her arms, giving the doomed man a look of pity. "…As you wish." "Come on! I haven’t got all morning!" He shouted angrily and knelt down without hesitation. His head pointed toward the headsman. "… My ancestors are smiling at me, Imperials. Can you say the same?!" The Captain found it fitting to place a foot on his back. As the axe was driven through his throat. It happened so quickly there was barely even a gurgling before the head plopped into the basket in a waterfall of blood. "You Imperial bastards!" Cried one of the rebel soldiers as the body was kicked to the side. "Justice!" Responded one of the townspeople. "Death to the Stormcloaks!" Another concurred. "...As fearless in death as he was in life." Ralof was suddenly sorrowful as he bowed his head. "Next, the bear!" The sky rumbled a little louder this time. "There it is again... did you hear that?" "I said... Next. Prisoner." "To the block prisoner. Nice and easy." Time felt like it was slowing as she made her way. She wondered what led her to this and was starting to get extremely frustrated at her blackened memory. She finally decided it was probably for the best, seeing how she was seemingly looking her killer in the eye as he raised his hefty weapon. Just as quickly as lightning a large scaly behemoth perched atop a stone tower looming above them all. It let out a vicious snarl that made the strongest of men recoil. "What in Oblivion is that!?!" "Sentries, what do you see?" "Dragon!!!" The citizens grew a mass panic as they let out horrible cries at the winged harbinger of old tales come to life. It let out a cry filled with an odd energy that gave Neda a strange chill. Meteors showered down, punching holes in clouds and crumbled buildings. "Guards! Get the townsfolk to safety!" "Come on! The guards won’t give us another chance! This way!" She pulled herself up to see Ralof motioning to a large set of double doors ahead. She scurried behind him and Ulfric. Dodging blasts of flame and power. The heat rose and swirled around them almost chocking them. Once forcing the doors open Neda and Ralof slammed them closed. He turned to his leader nearly out of breath. "Jarl Ulfric, what is that thing? Could the legends be true?" He took a blade and cut his comrades bindings. "Legends don’t burn down villages." He confirmed after doing away with the detested gag. There was another roar that sounded just outside the building before he could free her. "We need to move, now!" They ran up the steps with the bear in the lead. They were stoped as the wall at the top burst open revealing a very familiar set of machete sized fangs. The jaws split apart and a cloud of fire filled the upper floor. Neda used her arms to shield her face as the sparks passed her until the beast flew off. She swore she could hear a voice say something in the wave heat but her train of thought was cut off by Ralof. "See the inn on the other side? Jump through the roof and keep going! We’ll follow when we can!" She was way ahead of him. She ran up the rest of the stairs into a running jump. She didn't look back as she ran through the embers greedily consuming the inn. She felt splinters of wood jab her and rip into the skirt of her dress. The rest of the village was just as broken and scorched as the crumbling inn. "Haming, you need to get over here. Now!" A soldier in front of her was frantically trying to beckon a boy. The child ran to where he was directed. The man turned his attention to another soldier. "Torolf!" Torolf turned to him, making him too distracted to see the dragon. It's talon stepped his body and crushed it into two bloody pieces. "Gods... Everyone get back!" The creature bellowed another eerie cry has he lifted up again. Neda took the chance to move behind his view. The guard noticed her. "Still alive, prisoner? Keep close to me if you want to stay that way. Gunnar, take care of the boy. I have to find General Tullius and join their defense." He started to to run ahead of her. He seemed to be leading him somewhere. She was curious why he was helping a supposed prisoner. Did he believe she was innocent? Did he think she deserved a second chance? Or was he saving her for a proper execution to make sure she dead without leaving it to chance? "Gods guide you, Hadvar." He whispered loud enough for her to hear as he led her between a sturdy wall and  burning houses. "Stay close to the wall!" He ordered as two scaly wings draped the wall crushing an archer and pushing another into the inferno. Neda pressed her body against the stone. The sound of shouting flame haunted her again. She was beginning to think she was insane. Once the beast took off again they bolted toward another opening and another stone fortress with two openings this time. "Quickly, follow me!" The general was at one of the entrances. "Hadvar! Into the keep, soldier, we're leaving!" "It's you and me, prisoner. Stay close!" They ran until he saw the StormCloak approaching the second door. "Ralof! You damned traitor. Out of my way!" "We're escaping, Hadvar. You're not stopping us this time." "Fine. I hope that dragon takes you all to Sovngarde." Ralof scoffed at his curse then looked up at the woman behind him. "You! Come on, into the keep!" Neda didn't take much time to think about it. Despite the Imperial's moment of kindness toward a child she couldn't honestly trust him or more importantly the superiors who just tried to execute her without considering her reason for being there. "Hin sil fen nahkip bahloki." She ran into the room secured with two bared doors on each side. There was a Stormcloak's corpse waiting for them.  "Here, let me cut you lose." He finally offered and with a swift cut of his knife her aching paws were now free. "You should see if you can't use one of Gunjar's weapons. He won't be needing them anymore." "I appreciate your approval..." She rubbed her wrist as she knelt. She examined the body but didn't want to touch the poor thing if she could help it. She felt it was disrespectful. She tucked the blade at his side into the sheath on the belt of her dress. Her paws still ached so she began to open and close them in fists. Ralof called her over as he heard footsteps and soldiers talking. She crouched down and hid on the other side of the doorframe. She knew she was in for a fight when she heard the female elf. Suddenly her paws lit up. One held sparking embers the other glowed with a calming light. The three guards walked through the creaking gate and were not match for the ambush. Ralof jammed a dagger into one of their knees and took a blade to the screaming man's chest. "You're not escaping on my watch!" The Captain charged at Neda angrily even as the bear's magic engulfed her body and burned every bit of her flesh. She swung her blade like a mad dog until the flames filled her lungs making her gag and choke horribly. Neda drove her sword through her neck to end her misery. The last one struck her just as she landed the cut. She quickly conjured another flame to blind him. He let out a horrible screech before Ralof rammed his weapon into his stomach. "You going to be alright? That cut is pretty deep." He observed the bleeding gashes on her broad back and arms. "I just need a moment to heal." She answered. Her breathing became heavy as she rested. She felt her wounds slowly close as she casts a bright healing light around her. "Alright. In the meantime the guards should have the key to that door. This one can't open from our side." She glanced at the burned corpse. She hesitated but knew she'd have to rummage through the pockets like a filthy grave robber. She was ashamed how easy it was for her to push aside what was once a living being but she found what they were looking for and she decided she would make it up somehow, just maybe not to the victims since they tried to kill her twice now. The key unlocked the gate and they rushed down the hall. A wall of rubble forced them into a storeroom. "It's the prisoners!" There were already two soldiers gathering supplies. They unsheathed their swords and closed in. They were met with a burst of flames. It didn't slow them. The first used all his strength to strike at the woman. She was able to block his attack and throw him off. She rushed him before he could recover. The cold steel cut through his armor and skewered the lungs. He spat a spray of blood in his last gasps of breath. The next Imperial was already on the cold ground when he slumped to his knees. "Check the barrels for potions. There are probably more soldiers ahead." "We better get some food too. Who knows when our next meal will be." She added as she butchered some hanging pheasant. "I like the way you think." He smirked as he took the gold from the dead Imperials. "But you don't have to be too concerned about going on the run. If you weren't on the list they aren't looking for you. You'll be fine as long as you don't run into another ambush. Whatever you did no one else knows about it." "Not even me..." She mumbled as she pocketed some magica potions. The sounds of clattering steel reached their ears. They rushed to see another battle between rebels and soldiers. The Imperials were gaining the upper hand. Ralof let out an angry cry as charged sword first at one of the men as they slit his comrade's throat. Neda punched another in the back of the head, catching him attention before he could do the same. She drew her blade after dodging his retaliation but didn't get to use it as his victim was able to stab him in the back. "Have you seen the Jarl?" Ralof asked the surviving StormCloak. He shook his head. "Not since that dragon appeared." "What were they doing down here?" She asked as she saw the cages containing bodies in various stages of decay. "Torture, what else?" Ralof answered without thought as he tried to fiddle with the cage's lock. "Must have been how they were able to set up the ambush...Do you know how to pick locks? We could use the gold in here when we get out." She paused, spotting some picks on the table and slipped one in the keyhole. It appeared to be a weak lock because she was immediately able to click it loose. She pulled the body from the cage and laid it gently on the ground. Then she took the spell book that was next to it. Ralof and his peers searched the room for more potions and resources as she quickly flipped through the pages speaking of magic sapping electricity. She was surprised how fast she was able to understand it. They went on the move again. The hall lined with hanging cages opened up to a cave. It started as a wide room with a path from their door to a tunnel. The was a steep slope from the path to a shallow pool of water. The water came from a waterfall that dissected the natural path where there was now a wooden bridge. Imperials were blocking the path and talking among themselves. That is, until the two StormCloaks decided to charge in. Neda rolled her eyes and followed. She noted the oil on the ground and used her flames to ignite it and everyone inside. In spite their pained horrified screaming they still managed to shoot arrows at her. She tried to avoid them, running down the steep slope and circumnavigate to the other end but she still managed to get struck by a couple. Unfortunately the archers weren't the only thing that caught on fire as after the fight she noticed some of Ralof's hair was still burning. "Sorry about that." She winced as she pulled the last arrow out of her shoulder. "Next time warn us first." He said sternly. Then he chugged a potion. "You two go on ahead, I'll wait here for Jarl Ulfric." The third member told them before they crossed the drawbridge leading to the tunnel. He didn't have a chance to change his mind as the tunnel entrance collapsed after another ground shattering roar. Ralof and Neda were on their own once more. The tunnel seemed to go on for miles as they ran into a den of poisonous frostbite spiders. They crawled and fell from the walls attempting to bite and add the intruders to their grisly collection. The cave finally seemed to be reaching it's end as they entered an even larger room. "You see that?" The Nord whispered as the Nanook plucked an oddly abandoned coin purse from a wooden cart. "Don't say it." She mumbled with a hint of annoyance as she spotted a very distant, wild, and less intelligent cousin sleeping in the middle of the chamber. "Say what?" "...Never mind." "Anyway...We should probably try to sneak past her, unless you want to take my bow." "Let's not test her." "Take it anyway. You might need it soon." The carefully snuck away from the animal and finally reached the exit. The sun shined on them as if to greet them. The calls of a dragon greeted them as well. They watched as it's wings carried it toward a nearby town.

Inglorious

Inglorious on A03.

Lotus followed Professor McGonagall through the halls of Hogwarts. It was time for the First Task of the Triwizard Tournament. What a farce. She could not get out of it. Lotus figured out she could have gotten away with the minimum, but she had a plan that would put a wrench into Voldemort’s and Dumbledore’s plans.

Every year it was the same and it was finally getting to Lotus. She had wished she had never gone to Hogwarts. Why couldn’t Lotus have gone to Beauxbatons or Salem Witches Institute or Ilvermorny? Then again two were location based. Magic was great but the people were not. It would be better if she could be anyone, anyone at all, even a muggleborn. First year, well, after first year it never really stopped, did it? Lotus let the hat sort her into Slytherin and that was where everything went all wrong. Sure, the hat said she could be great, it is all here in her head, and it is. She beats Hermione at every score. But unlike Hermione she has no friends she can count on. 

Lotus is an outcast as is and certainly could not afford to make enemies being friends with muggleborns. It became a catch 22 for her. In the end, the Slytherins are semi-polite to her in front of the other houses but behind closed doors. The only comfort is that they would never maim her or kill but Lotus knew from her time with the Dursleys that a lot can be done to a person that is short of maiming and killing. It was semi-polite because she was still the Girl-Who-Lived and had political pull. Slytherins were clearly the easiest to deal with so long as you were willing to make an exchange. They still disliked Lotus, and she knew this from her time spent under the invisibility cloak it was the repeated rhetoric of their parents. It was over something she did not do. No one year old baby did accidental magic, ever! Lotus always wondered how did anyone really know what happened that night?

The problem was the other houses hated Lotus too, especially Gryffindor. They took it as a personal offense that she was not one of them. Adults were cruel and Lotus had learned not to trust them but kids, they could be just as cruel. They whispered that Lotus was the next Dark Lady simply because she was in Slytherin. Then there was the whole end of the year disaster with the Voldemort possessed Professor kidnapping her from her bed. Second year she ended up in school late with no supplies...she did not want to go into that. It happened again in third year. Did the Professors finally get a hint that her home life was a far cry from Albus fucking Dumbledore claimed it to be? Oh, how she hated that old Headmaster. Part of why Lotus had clung so tightly to life was because she wanted to piss on his grave one day.

“Good luck Ms. Potter.” Lotus entered the tent Professor McGonagall pointed too.

“Thanks,” Lotus said and entered the tent. She glanced at the pale faced champions. The champions glanced at her but ignored her.

"Well, now we're all here - time to fill you in!" said Bagman brightly. When the audience has assembled, I'm going to be offering each of you this bad" - he held up a small sack of purple silk and shook it at them - "from which you will each select a small model of the thing you are about to face! There are different - er - varieties, you see. And I will have to tell you something else too...all, yes...your task is to collect the golden egg!"

And in no time at all, hundreds upon hundreds of pairs of feet could be heard passing the tent, their owners talking excitedly, laughing, joking... Lotus felt disconnected from it all. It was different from the loneliness and from the feeling of simply being separate. She was separate, the freak of the Dursleys and unwanted child. She was the kid who Dudley kept everyone away from. There was a gap between her and her fellow Slytherins let alone the space between her and the rest of the school. The quiet settled in quickly and Bagman was opening the sack.

“Ladies first,” he said offering it to Fleur. She drew the Welsh Green. Then it was Krum and he drew the Chinese Fireball. Cedric drew the Swedish Short-Snout. Lotus pulled out the last one and it was a Hungarian Horntail. How droll. Bagman left them alone.

Lotus plopped down and closed her eyes. In another life she would have felt pity for Cedric because obviously he did not know the first tasks was dragons and the foreign champions did. Maybe in another life when others had been good and kind to her, and she had connections because you know, she was the Girl-Who-Lived and a beloved figure she would have helped out. But she didn’t have the connections, not yet. She was fourteen who hadn’t accomplished anything in the world. Lotus admitted privately for the first time that she was bitter about the world. She knew it was cruel, and she had hoped it would one day get better. But Lotus could see the writing on the wall. She was fourteen and not dumb as much as Dumbledore thought she didn’t read between the lines or pick up the information from their short conversations after her encounter with Voldemort at Hogwarts.

Cedric was called first. Her racing and bitter thoughts began to slow. She counted forth first of memories. Lotus used these racing thoughts to calm down. Then Fleur went next. She remembered being excited about Hogwarts and how quickly the magic went up in flames. The clock had struck midnight before everyone else. Magic was blood, sweat, and tears. There was nothing pleasant here among the snot and upturned noses. Krum went next. Peace settled in her heart. This would be her inglorious moment of history.

“Take that Albus fucking Dumbledore.” Saying it outloud somehow made Lotus feel better. She wanted to shout it out to the world. Maybe her letter to the Daily Prophet would be believed along with her medical history provided by one Goblin healer. Perhaps not. Maybe Britain and the wizarding world would never get its shit together. Lotus hoped it would.

Finally, it was her turn. She stood up as the whistle blew. Lotus uncorked the potion and swallowed it. She took three deep breaths and stepped out into the winter air. Hundreds of faces stared down at her and there was the Horntail. At the end of the enclosure, crouched low over her clutch of eggs, her wings half-furled, she thrashed her spiked tail back and forth, leaving thick gouge marks on the hard ground.

Lotus stretched her arms first and then her legs to give the potion time to set in. It was a fast acting pain killer. Soon her whole body felt like she was a marshmallow. Lotus skipped towards the dragon humming. She was ready to meet her parents. Why couldn’t they have left a will? Why couldn’t they have picked a better godparent for her, one who wouldn’t have left her that night for revenge? Truthfully, Lotus wondered if her parents even loved her at this rate. Hope had been crushed from her heart when she learned her godfather had broken out of Azakaban not because Pettigrew was at school with her, just simply for Pettigrew. Her childhood had been torn to shreds caught between the magic hating Dursleys and a world that reviled her and loved her in turns. She was not the England Wizarding world’s savior. But today, today she would be her own.

“I wonder, Mum, Dad? Can you see me now? What do you think of this shithole called life? I really got the short end of the stick, didn’t it? Death by dragonfire. Quite inglorious, ain’t it?”

“What is she doing?” The murmurs and confusion quickly turned into shouts and demands. Lotus smiled when she got to close and the Horntail erupted breathing fire upon her body. It didn’t take long for Lotus’ body to becomes a crispy barbecue. The crowed became silent and still. Albus Dumbledore himself froze even as the scent of burnt flesh hit his nose. The Horntail roared out in challenge.

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Daily Prophet

LOTUS POTTER COMMITS SUICIDE BY DRAGONFIRE!

By Rita Skeeter

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The Quibbler

THE LETTER THE DAILY PROPHET WILL NOT PUBLISH, A TELL ALL BY LOTUS POTTER

By Xenophilius Lovegood

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The Wizarding World News 

QUESTIONS REMAIN ABOUT LOTUS POTTER’S SUICIDE

By Adda Ravens